Matterdale

Chapelry and township in Greystoke parish, Leath ward, Cumberland. CP enlarged by absorbing Watermillock CP 1934.

Acreage:

7,288 acres [2,949 ha], including extensive areas of unenclosed fell grazings on Matterdale Common (2,605 acres [1,054 ha]), regulated 1882 under Commons Act 1976, when a further 2,500 acres [1,012 ha] of mossland and stinted pastures were enclosed.

Population:

297 in 1801 rising steadily to 426 by 1871, then gradual decline to 229 by 1931 (last census year before boundary change).

Landownership:

part of barony of Greystoke (q.v.).

Economy:

predominantly hill farming; some quarrying and mining in 19th century; tourism from later 20th century.

Places of worship:

chapel of ease, licensed as parochial chapel 1573; probably rebuilt c.1685; thatched until 1848 when tower added.

Schools and other institutions:

school built 1716 and endowed by Rev. Robert Grisdale 1722; replaced by new larger building on adjacent site 1907; closed; both buildings used for community purposes.