Church of St John the Baptist, Carhampton

The Church of St John the Baptist is a medieval building in Carhampton featuring a fifteenth-century tower that was restored during the 1800s. Inside, visitors find an ornate wooden pulpit and a painted screen both dating to around 1500, which represent the most precious elements of the interior.

The building was originally dedicated to Saint Carantoc, a Welsh monk from the sixth century. Its present form came about largely through major reconstruction work carried out between 1862 and 1870, which preserved the medieval character while updating the structure.

The building remains a living community space where residents gather for worship and celebrations that shape local life. Its role as a meeting point reflects how religious buildings become woven into the fabric of village identity.

The building is open during daylight hours and can be explored at a leisurely pace to appreciate the architecture and interior details. Visitors should be respectful of any ongoing worship and dress appropriately, as this remains an active place of prayer for the community.

Remarkably, the carved wooden elements including the pulpit and painted screen survived the major reconstruction work of the nineteenth century. These rare survivors offer a direct window into the craftsmanship and artistic skills of the late medieval period.

Location: Carhampton

Inception: 15 century

GPS coordinates: 51.17460,-3.41860

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:03