Church of St Michael, Princetown

The Church of St Michael in Princetown is a granite building with thick stone walls, a three-level west tower topped with pointed spires, and a wide nave divided into five sections with side aisles. It sits at 436 meters above sea level on Dartmoor and is listed as Grade II* for its architectural importance.

Construction took place from 1810 to 1814 under architect Daniel Alexander, with French and American prisoners of war doing the labor during the Napoleonic Wars. These captives were held in the area and played a crucial role in completing the structure.

The east window holds stained glass made in 1910 by Mayer of Munich to honor the American prisoners who helped build the church. This window tells the story of those who labored here during wartime.

The church sits on high moorland, so visitors should expect exposed conditions and bring appropriate weather gear. Access is limited since services are occasional, so checking ahead helps avoid disappointment.

Inside the church stands a hexagonal pulpit that originally came from the Church of St Sidwell in Exeter. This unusual piece shows how furnishings moved between different places over time.

Location: Dartmoor Forest

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

GPS coordinates: 50.54605,-3.99604

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:21