Hidden in Plain Site - Airton Grade II* Quaker Meeting House

Tour the Meeting House up until 2pm or attend a talk at 10am or 12noon for an interpretation of the historical significance of this building complex and burial ground.

Built on the foundations of a cruck-framed barn it is possibly the oldest Quaker Meeting House anywhere. Recent research focussing on Airton and Malhamdale has sought to explain the conundrum posed by Airton's presence and its role in the development of the Seeker and Quaker movements. This, along with a vernacular buildings survey, have been combined into an illustrated publication that will be available for purchase.

Restoration has been undertaken recently on the 17th century oak wainscotting and the internal screen with shutters that separated the Men's and Women's meeting rooms. The nail-fastened butterfly hinges along with other ironwork latches are dated to the same period.

Externally there is a date stone, a stone bench incorporated into the wall and a substantial gate way to the garden and burial area, adding further protection to this secluded site.

The very peaceful simplicity of the Meeting House reflects the core beliefs of early quakers and powerfully evokes the generations who have sat together there over the centuries.

Worship, largely conducted in silence, is still observed today. You are very welcome to join us at 2pm for as little or as long a time as you might wish.

Home-made refreshments will be available in the attached barn or can be enjoyed in the garden if the weather is kind.

Timings & Tours

Sunday 14 September:

1000-1400

Sunday 21 September:

1000-1400

Location & directions

Airton Quaker Meeting House, Airton, Carlton Lane, Skipton, North Yorkshire, BD23 4AE

Directions:

Airton is approached by minor roads and is situated about 2.5 miles south of Malham. On arriving at Airton from Gargrave on the Gargrave to Malham road turn right onto the road leading to Carlton, alongside the village green, and you will find the Meeting House on the right as you descend down towards the bridge. A steward will be present to show you where it is best to park in the village. The Keighley Bus Company operates the 864 Cravenlink Sunday bus service to Airton.

Contact on day:

Cindy Metcalfe

Telephone number:

+441729900018

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

Airton is a very small village. Please be respectful of village residents and the need for agricultural vehicles to be able to get through. A guide will be present to show you where it is acceptable to park.

Additional information

Max no of people per tour:

35

Est. tour duration:

1 hour(s)

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