subject: Kirby Wiske Offers History And Wildlife [print this page] Kirby Wiske is a quiet, remote hamlet, consisting of around 20 houses, with a population of approximately 250 residents. Its highlights are the local parish church, St John the Baptist and the post office. It is a hamlet surrounded by green fields and every house has at least one car, unsurprisingly given its remote geography. Kirby Wiske was also the birthplace of a scholar, Latin tutor and secretary to Mary Tudor, Lady Jane Grey and Queen Elizabeth I.
The nearest large town is Thirsk, which is about four miles away. It is located eight miles south of Northallerton also. The A167 is half a mile from Kirby Wiske. Sion Hill Hall in Kirby Wiske is said to be one of the last country houses built in England and designed by Walter Brierley. Built in 1913, it is now home to the Birds of Prey and Conservation Centre, which is very popular with visitors. A visit to Kirby Wiske is one in which you will discover many historical features and experience a sense of village life from a time gone by.
Over the years, the village's population has fluctuated greatly, from over 1000 in the eighteenth century to fewer than 200 now. This could be because of the decline in agricultural works in the local area. Traces of a Roman Camp were found in the eighteenth century, linking Kirby Wiske to the Roman invasion of the early centuries. Also uncovered was a tumulus in which human remains were found of around 40 skeletons that were said to have been buried "in haste" following the Battle of the Standard in the 14th century.
As with many towns containing "Kirk", Kirby Wiske has a church at its centre and has done since its foundation. The church is located on raised ground at the heart of the village. It is Norman in origin and has some vibrant stained glass windows. The River Wiske flows around the outskirts of the village, where it meets the fast-flowing River Swale.
If visiting Kirby Wiske, a visit to Thirsk is an excellent way to spend a day or two. There are many places to eat, drink, stay and spend time, including many historical and wildlife visitor centres. Rail services are available in Thirsk, which is about twenty miles from the nearest airport. Thirsk is a popular holiday destination, in particular with horse racing enthusiasts, who visit Thirsk Racecourse. It is a large medieval town and still contains stone relics from that age, including the famous market which takes place twice weekly in the market square. The World of James Herriot museum is a popular destination for tourists, as is the Ritz Cinema, one of the oldest surviving cinemas, playing classic movies and run by volunteers. Thomas Lord, a past Thirsk resident, who founded the famous Lord's cricket ground, was born in the house that now contains a museum. A further picturesque location to see whilst in the area is the Kilburn White Horse, which is carved into a hillside near to Thirsk.
by: David Fisher
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