The area has evolved from a small farming-based settlement into a residential area, yet traces of its agricultural past are still evident. Despite the loss of rural activity in Kirkby Cross, several former agricultural buildings have been conserved.

Kirkby Cross Conservation Area Appraisal

Kirkby Cross Conservation Area Appraisal was adopted by Ashfield District Council in September 2004. This was in response to the Council’s commitment to preserve and enhance the four conservation areas within Ashfield District, as outlined in the adopted Ashfield Local Plan Review (2002).

Select this link to download the Kirkby Cross Conservation Area Appraisal

St Wilfrid's Church, Kirkby in Ashfield

Within the conservation area is the outstanding St. Wilfrid's Church which stands on an ancient Christian site dating back to Saxon times and was originally called St. Lukes. The Church dates from the 1100s with modifications carried out during the 1400s. A fire in 1907 destroyed all 12th Century remains of the church and brought about widespread reconstruction in 1908.

More information on the Parish Church of St Wilfrid's .

One of the most distinctive features is the near continuous street boundary of stone walls, which create a sense of enclosure when travelling through the conservation area.

As a result of a recommendation of the Conservation Area appraisal, an Article 4 (2) Direction has been applied to all stone walls which are adjacent to the highway and public open spaces in Kirkby Cross Conservation Area.

Below are some examples of buildings and monuments in Kirkby Cross which can be seen from the pavement.

Kirkby Cross is the remains of a thirteenth century village cross in dressed stone, and is a listed structure and designated ancient monument.

It is believed that the cross has been here since 1218, some years before the village was granted a market fair. The cross was damaged in 1987 but has since been restored.

The pinfold at the top of Church Hill.

In days gone by, any stray sheep, cows, or other livestock found wandering outside their fields would be impounded in the pinfold.

The owners would have to pay a fine to have their animals released. The person who managed a pinfold was called a pinder. 'The Jolly Pinder of Wakefield' is an old ballad featuring Robin Hood, and first recorded in 1663.

No. 2 and No. 6 Church Street, adjacent to Kirkby Cross, both grade II listed buildings.

The buildings also have an adjoining stable that is listed.

No. 12, Chapel Street adding a splash of Summer colour to Kirkby.

No. 16 Chapel Street, with another colourful garden.

Nos. 12 - 16 (even) , the farmhouse and adjoining cottage, the farmyard, and the garden walls are all Grade II listed.

Number 20 Chapel Street with its verdant ivy covering.

The Grade II listed stable range just east of 20 Chapel Street.

Yes, even telephone boxes can be grade II listed! 

The K6 model, shown here on Chapel Street, was designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of King George V in 1935.                         

Table of listed buildings in Kirkby

Location of Kirkby Cross Conservation Area  

Select to download a detailed plan