Church of St Mary the Virgin, Norton Sub Hamdon

Church of St Mary the Virgin is a medieval parish church featuring a prominent five-stage tower with buttresses and decorative stonework typical of gothic design. The structure displays traditional elements including pointed arch windows and a buttressed parapet that rises significantly above the surrounding roofline.

The church originated in the mid-1200s and has endured centuries of use and modification as community needs changed. Major rebuilding work in the early 1500s and repairs following storm damage represent key periods when locals invested in maintaining their gathering place.

The building serves as a community hub where locals gather for worship and social events throughout the year. You can sense how the space remains central to village life in ways that extend beyond religious practice.

The building sits along Church Lane where it is easily found from central locations in the village. The surrounding churchyard is open for exploration and contains historical features worth noting during your visit.

The churchyard serves as the burial ground for Paddy Ashdown, a former leader of the Liberal Democrats party and influential political figure in recent British history. His presence here links the quiet village location to broader national events.

Location: Norton-sub-Hamdon

Inception: 13 century

GPS coordinates: 50.94000,-2.75361

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:27