The chapel of All Saints, Steetley lies within the parish of Whitwell, 1½ miles from the mother church. This tiny chapel measuring only 56 feet in length is situated in an isolated position, a solitary farmhouse being the only habitation in easy walking distance. Just 2 miles from Worksop, this ancient agricultural area lies in the north-eastern corner of Derbyshire, on the borders of both Nottinghamshire and Yorkshire.
All Saints is said to be by far the richest example of Norman architecture in Derbyshire, but by 1880 it was in ruins, roofless and covered in ivy. At this date it was skilfully restored by Pearson who brought back to life the former glory of the Norman carvings of this simple little chapel, consisting of just nave, chancel and vaulted apse. Visitors to this chapel will find a light on a time switch enabling them to drink in the beauty which is otherwise dimly lit.
The chapel was 'reconciled' by the Lord Bishop of Lichfield on the 2nd of November 1880. The register of baptisms beginning in 1919 is now at the County Record Office, Matlock. Although the chapel was licensed for marriages in 1919, the earliest marriage register deposited at the Record Office covers the dates 1960-1977. The only burial register for the small graveyard which surrounds the chapel is still in use.
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