St Mary's Church

St Mary's Church is a Grade I listed building featuring a nave with south porch, transeptal chapel, chancel with vestry, organ chamber, and a three-stage west tower. The structure combines architectural elements that developed over several centuries.

The church's origins trace back to 1001, establishing deep medieval roots in the region. Its west tower was built in 1867 during Victorian restoration efforts.

The church holds monuments honoring Admiral Robert Blake's family and a reredos from 1893 dedicated to Lady Mary Taunton. These decorative elements reflect the bonds between local families and this sacred space over centuries.

The building was deconsecrated in 1981 and converted into private housing, so it cannot be visited as an active place of worship. The altar was moved to St Margaret's Church in the nearby village of Spaxton.

Reverend Henry James Prince led a religious revival here until his license was revoked in 1842 by Bishop Law, creating a notable controversy. This episode left a lasting mark on the church's local history.

Location: Spaxton

Inception: 11 century

GPS coordinates: 51.13440,-3.08982

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:41