Church of St. Mary of the Purification, Blidworth, Medieval church in Blidworth, England
The Church of St Mary of the Purification is a church building featuring a striking west tower from the 15th century, while the rest of the structure was rebuilt in stages: first in 1739 and again in 1839 using dressed stone. The building combines medieval and Georgian-era architectural styles throughout.
The building started as a medieval structure with its distinctive west tower dating to the 15th century. Subsequent reconstructions in the 18th and 19th centuries transformed it, expanding its interior spaces and replacing many original features.
The church keeps a traditional ceremony alive where a baby boy born closest to Christmas Day is rocked in a cradle during the Feast of Purification celebrations. This ritual reflects how the local community blends its religious observances with personal family moments.
Visiting is best done on Sunday mornings when services are held and the doors are open to worshippers. The location sits easily accessible in the village center, though it is advisable to check opening times in advance when visiting outside service hours.
The tower displays two clock faces positioned so that visitors approaching from different directions along Main Street can easily read the time. This practical design shows how the church tower once served as a timekeeper for the entire community.
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