St Catherine of Siena Church, Cocking

St Catherine of Siena Church in Cocking is an Anglican church with roots reaching back to the 11th century, displaying features from multiple periods of construction. Inside, visitors can see an 11th-century chancel arch, wall paintings from the 13th century, and a 12th-century stone font positioned near the entrance.

The structure began as a simple two-cell building with a nave and chancel at the end of the 11th century, replacing an earlier wooden church from around 680. This stone construction represented a shift toward more permanent religious architecture in the area.

The church received its dedication to Saint Catherine of Siena in 2007, making it one of only three Anglican churches in England bearing this name. Visitors notice this choice reflected in how the space is maintained as a place of quiet worship today.

The church remains open for private prayer during daylight hours, offering visitors a quiet space for reflection. Parking is available at the former Manor Farm grounds, accessible by way of Mill Lane.

A 15th-century bell inscribed with 'Sancta Catrina ora pro nobis' dates to 1448, thirteen years before Saint Catherine of Siena's official canonization. This timing suggests that local devotion to this saint preceded formal church recognition by more than a decade.

Location: Cocking

Inception: 12 century

Architects: William Slater

Architectural style: Anglo-Saxon architecture

Website: http://cockingchurch.org.uk

GPS coordinates: 50.95040,-0.74920

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:45