The “church” is a hidden gorge that feels like “another world” (Image: Getty Images)
Tucked away in Staffordshire’s Black Forest lies Lud’s Church, a 100 metre long and 18-metre-deep moss-covered chasm that feels like a portal to another world.
Originally formed by a massive gritstone landslip, this natural wonder is nothing like a traditional church, but instead a mysterious gorge cloaked in moss, so otherworldly that visitors have described it as “a stunning and etherial experience”.
Located close to the Roaches in Leek, the chasm is popular with visitors who come to , or simply just explore the enchanting cracks and crevices of the ancient gorge.
Just over a mile from the nearby of Gradbach, the church can only be reached via a scenic 30-minute walk through the Black Forest.
Much more than just a hidden valley, this mystic marvel of nature is also rich in history and well worth the to get there.
The Roaches are a well-known North Staffordshire beauty spot (Image: Stoke on Trent Live)
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In the 15th century, the chasm served as a secret place of worship for the Lollards, followers of John Wycliffe, who opposed many practices of the Roman Catholic Church.
Often persecuted for their beliefs, the moss-covered walls and dense woodland provided an ideal refuge from authorities.
According to the website, Lud’s Church also has its very own lore. One exciting favourite is that the hidden chasm was used as a secret hideout by Robin Hood and Friar Tuck as they as they evaded the Sheriff of Nottingham and his men.
Another slightly more sinister myth from further back in Lud Church’s history is a that the chasm was created by the devil’s finger nail as he scraped back parts of the earth.
The hidden chasm served as place of worship in the 15th century (Image: Getty Images)
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Accessible via trails from the Roaches, Back Forest, and Gradbach, Lud’s Church is a must-visit for those seeking history, myths, and the thrill of stepping into a place unlike any other.
Visitors who have already discovered the incredible site have left high praises on Tripadvisor.
One reviewer described it as a “stunning and ethereal experience”, adding: “It is a mix between something from the film Labyrinth and Lord of the Rings, it’s incredible.”
Another who stressed the need for suitable footwear, added: “This natural chasm in the rocks near the Roaches formation in the southern Peak District is pretty impressive, and worth the fairly long (and very muddy) scramble along the rocky path from the tail of the Roaches to get there”
How to get to Lud’s Church
Most people park in the village of Gradbach to visit Lud’s Church, but be aware that parking fills up quickly on weekends and during holidays, so it’s best to arrive early, ideally before 9am.
For experienced hikers a visit to Lud’s Church can be incorporated into a 12.4km circular trail that also takes in other local landmarks including Hen Cloud, The Roaches, Doxey Pool and Lud’s Church.