This ancient church, with parts dating back to the 12th century, is thought to stand on the site of an even older Celtic Keeill (or chapel). It may have even older foundations as a pagan site; it seems to be no coincidence that the current church is due east of the prehistoric stone circle on Skybright (now known as Skybrick) Hill, the remains of which lie on private grounds but are visible from the church door.

In the middle ages, Malew was one of the most important churches on the Island. It was the parish church of Castletown, the principal seat of Government from the 13th century. The name Malew comes from a Celtic saint, probably the St Lua who also gave his name to the Irish Diocese of Killaloe. The Roman church disapproved of Irish saints and so Malew’s dedication was changed to St Lupus, the 5th century Bishop of Troyes in France.

A new wing was added in 1782, due to Castletown’s growing prosperity – the inhabitants wanted seating in their own church and subscribed to a fund to pay for the extension. During the installation of a new roof in 1929, a timber dated 1688 was found in the previous roof structure, perhaps suggesting the date of the earlier, probably originally thatch, roof. The beam is now displayed on the wall of the church.

The great East window, installed in 1844, is the work of one of the finest stained glass artists of the period, William Eailes of Newcastle. It is one of the earliest stained glass windows on the Isle of Man and was recently restored in memory of the Gelling family. The window depicts the symbols of the four evangelists, with Christ on the left and possibly St Lupus on the right.

In January 2006 one of Britain’s most distinguished sculptors Bryan Kneale RA unveiled a memorial to Illiam Dhone, the famous Manx Nationalist and politician who become Governor of the Isle of Man in 1658. Opinion is divided as to whether Illiam Dhone was a hero or a villian and much has been written about his life and death. He was executed at Hango Hill, accused of treason, and according to local legend was buried in the chancel in Kirk Malew. Since his burial the chancel has been extended and many graves were disturbed. There is no record of Illiam Dhone being found and his mortal remains continue to be a mystery!