The structure, which is grade II* listed, is dated to the 12th century, replacing an earlier building on the same site.

The church is noted for being the supposed baptismal location of Grace Pace, Captain Cook's mother.

The five lamps were placed there to light a shrine to St Mary (the dedication) by Robert de Thormodbi, who suffered a severe wounding during a Crusade encounter at Acre in the 13th century.

[14][15] A prevailing local legend states that Grace Pace, the mother of Captain Cook, was baptised in the church.

[3] However, burials still continued of those who had close relatives interred in the churchyard, so that they "might have the privilege of being buried there on their decease [sic].

[27] Some of the stones in the south wall show evidence of re-use; at least two have dials cut into them representing twenty-four hours.

[28][29] Internally, the design of the columns and the roof has crossed leaves, something which is rare in North Yorkshire, being recognised in only one other church in the area, that at St Wilfrid in South Stainley.

[31] A chancel is known to have been on the eastern end of the church, but this was removed at some unknown date, and the access arch through the east side was walled up.