Church of St Mary, Ilminster

The Church of St Mary is a Gothic parish church in Ilminster with a distinctive tower rising two stories above the nave and divided by three bays with slender buttresses. Decorative finials crown the structure and define the building's appearance.

Construction of the church began in 1401, and the tower was completed in the first quarter of the 16th century. Major renovations took place in the mid-19th century and again at the end of that century.

The church holds the tombs of the Wadham family, particularly Nicholas and Dorothy Wadham, whose names are closely linked to the founding of Wadham College in Oxford. Visitors can see these burial monuments and understand the family's connection to the university.

The church remains active and accessible as a place of worship for the community. Visitors should plan according to typical parish church opening hours and be respectful when entering.

The tower stair turret features string courses aligned with the main tower and includes pierced stonework in the upper window sections. These refined architectural details reflect late medieval craftsmanship and reward a closer look.

Location: Ilminster

Inception: 15 century

GPS coordinates: 50.92720,-2.91139

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:40