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The mediaeval town now known as
Market Weighton - The Heart of East Yorkshire
750 Years a Market Town, 1251 - 2001

Goodmanham - in the East Riding of Yorkshire

Goodmanham (Godmundin Gaham in AD 731) is a small village about 2 miles to the north-east of Market Weighton, and dates back to Stone Age times. It is one of the oldest religious sites in the country and was witness to a significant event in the history of England.  The village once housed the pagan temple of Delgovine (the place of God's image) and was the main centre of pagan worship in the north of England, with a temple dedicated to the god Woden.

The ancient name Godmundingaham is derived from the Celtic 'Godo', an uncovered sanctuary or temple, and 'mynyddis', meaning a hilly place.

Christianity came to the area in 627 AD, following the conversion of Edwin, King of Northumbria, to the Christian faith.  This followed the preachings at the nearby palace at Londesborough by Paulinus (the chaplain to Princess Ethelburga of Kent, a Christian whom Edwin married), who became the first Archbishop of York.
Having been converted to Christianity, Edwin subsequently destroyed the heathen temple at Goodmanham.  The sacking of the temple is recorded in a stained glass window in All Hallows church in the village.

Edwin was baptised in York on Easter Day, 12 April AD 627, and the church that was built on the site of the baptism was eventually to be replaced by York Minster as it is known today.

All Hallows church, standing on an elevated position at the north-eastern end of Goodmanham reflects as much history as does the village itself.........

All Hallows Church, Goodmanham

The Church, much of which is Norman in style, is characterised by its stubby tower and walls some three feet thick.  It dates back to AD 1130 with numerous changes and additions taking place up to the 16th century, and is said to be built on the site of the original pagan temple.

Last revision : 26 February, 2004