Heritage Open Day: St.Helen's church has national significance for the historical, aesthetic, archaeological and evidential value of this Grade I listed building, the main features being the Anglo-Saxon tower with Recess and Ragnarok stone and Medieval Cross Slabs. The church is dedicated to St.Helen, as are many in York Diocese. This is due to the connection with Emperor Constantine, her son, who was declared Emperor in York. He had legalized Christianity within the Roman Empire in 313AD. Helen was famous for her pilgrimages, especially to Jerusalem. The North aisle was added in the 12th century Commissioned by Anthony Bek, Bishop of Durham. The south aisle was added in the 13th century. In 1450 the Nave roof was raised and Clerestory was added.