Introduction

The village of Seascale is located on the west coast of Cumbria, on the edge of the Lake District. The Parish Church of St. Cuthbert has rather modest proportions and, to an organ enthusiast, gives no clue that it might contain an instrument of any consequence. However, when the church was built at the end of the nineteenth century, the village was a popular and prosperous seaside holiday destination, and the residents were fortunate to be able to purchase something surprisingly special.

The organ was built by William Hill & Son in 1867 for St. Bees Priory, but in 1896 the decision was made to replace it with a larger 'Father' Willis instrument, and the Hill organ was moved the few miles south to Seascale in 1897. In 1927 it was modified by Harrison & Harrison under the direction of Colonel George Dixon, and it has remained in their care ever since.

In 1999, the Parish Church Council approved an ambitious refurbishment project costing in excess of £50,000. The award of a Historic Organs Certificate by the British Institute of Organ Studies demanded the highest standards of authentic historical restoration. The work was completed, again by Harrison & Harrison, in 2001 when the inaugural recital was given by a world-renowned organist, the late David Sanger.

The organ continues to be maintained in excellent condition and recitals are arranged every year.