St Mary's Church, Kersey

St Mary's Church in Kersey is a medieval parish church featuring a four-stage tower, diagonal buttresses, and an octagonal stair turret with a castellated parapet. Its walls display the typical Gothic proportions and stonework details characteristic of the period.

Construction began in the 12th century with major rebuilding around 1335 and the tower completed in the 15th century. These stages of work span generations and show how the building evolved over time.

The medieval rood screen displays painted panels showing saints and kings in vivid detail. Edmund the Martyr appears here with an arrow, representing his role in local devotion.

The interior is accessible and contains modern facilities at the west end of the north aisle, including kitchen amenities. A community book exchange with over 100 volumes offers something to browse during your visit.

During World War II, searchlights positioned in the churchyard served as a vital navigation marker for pilots, earning the building the nickname 'Thank God Church'. This reflects how the site became essential to the community during wartime.

Location: Kersey

Inception: 14 century

GPS coordinates: 52.05771,0.91889

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:46