Canford Magna Parish Church, 13th century parish church in Canford Magna, England
Canford Magna Parish Church is a 13th-century place of worship that combines Saxon, Norman, and Mid Gothic architectural styles. The north tower follows a layout similar to Exeter Cathedral, while the original late Saxon chapel now serves as the chancel.
The original chapel was built during late Saxon times and now forms the church's chancel. It was administered by Bradenstoke Priory until the priory's dissolution in 1539 during the English Reformation.
The church houses six bells in its north tower, five cast by William Knight and a treble bell added in 1897 to mark Queen Victoria's Jubilee. These bells continue to shape the sonic character of the village today and form part of the parish's living tradition.
The church holds regular services and serves as a gathering place for community events throughout the year. Online streaming allows people to participate in worship from home if they cannot visit in person.
The churchyard contains the graves of the archaeologist Sir Austen Henry Layard, Baron Wimborne, Judge Sir Walter Shaw, and RAF serviceman Ellis Gawler. These burials connect the church to broader stories of exploration, law, and military service.
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