Church of St Thomas A Becket, Medieval parish church in Box, England
Church of St Thomas A Becket is a medieval parish church in Box featuring Norman architecture and a prominent tower. The building displays stone carvings and a two-story vestry constructed during the 14th century.
This building was constructed around 1150 and originally dedicated to the Virgin Mary but was rededicated to Thomas Becket during the 13th century. This change happened as pilgrimages to Canterbury became increasingly popular throughout the region.
The north-east chapel contains uncommon architectural details and a reredos that echoes the style of similar works found in major cathedrals. These elements show the craftsmanship that local builders brought to this small parish.
The church houses four bells including specimens from the 15th and 16th centuries operated through an Ellacombe apparatus allowing a single person to ring them. Visitors should be aware that the bells ring regularly and their sound fills the building and surrounding area.
The churchyard contains a pyramidal tombstone with an unusual shape that according to local stories served a specific purpose. Local accounts suggest the stone's distinctive form was intentionally designed to fulfill a particular wish of the deceased.
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