Church of St Leonard at the Hythe, Colchester

Church of St Leonard at the Hythe is a Gothic church in Colchester with a wooden tower and detailed stone carvings throughout. The building features an ornate wooden roof from the 16th century that spans the length of the central nave.

The church dates to medieval times and bears marks from the English Civil War, when bullets were fired into its doors. These scars show how conflict touched even religious buildings during that turbulent period.

The interior displays carved screens and furnishings from the 18th and 19th centuries that show how tastes changed over time. These pieces reflect the choices and values of the people who worshipped here.

Visiting requires some planning ahead, as the building has limited opening times. It helps to check when doors are open before making a trip and note that it sits outside the main town center.

The church holds a strong connection to the waterside location where it stands near the old harbor, serving travelers who arrived by boat. This position shaped the community and gave the building a special role linked to maritime life.

Location: Colchester

Architectural style: English Gothic architecture

Website: http://visitchurches.org.uk/Ourchurches/Completelistofchurches/St-LeonardattheHythe-Church-Colchester-Essex

GPS coordinates: 51.88470,0.92320

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:25