churchtourismstudy

This week I am in Somerset. There are many glorious churches here, many with superb towers. All built to the glory of God. The trouble with here is deciding which churches to see. There are so many good ones that I have only been able to choose a selection to whet your appetite. Go and explore, there are some real gems to discover.

St. Mary’s, Ilminster

Right in the heart of this little town sits St. Mary’s. A minster church – that means a place which had several priests who went out to serve the neighbouring parishes. St. Mary’s is open every day. The signs outside do not say this as such but do say ‘Welcome to St. Mary’s.’ There are the usual guidebooks for sale as well as postcards of the church. There are lots of leaflets on the Christian faith – mainly from SgmLifewords (see previous post about leaflets on these). 30 people had signed the visitors book in the last month. There are also some leaflets available entitled ‘Living with loss.’

This really is a stunning church. There is a prayer chapel for quiet prayer, a prayer board with leaflets on how to pray. There is also some folders about the World War 1 and 2 local war dead. These are very welcome and well done.

I would rate this church as very good.

 

 

 

 

 

St. Mary the Virgin, Isle Abbotts

The signs outside are pretty basic but there is a good welcome sign stood up in the porch. Inside, I found that 13 people had signed the visitors book in the last month There are guides available, post cards and book marks. There is also small library. Perhaps more interestingly there is a display of the tower restoration of a few years ago and also more recent parish events. This all helps to show that this is more than a beautiful building but is a living community of Christians. This is a lovely church to visit and I would rate it as OK on my very scientific rating system (I will have to do a post on how I have worked this out – there is a system!).

 

 

 

 

St. Catherine’s, Swell

What a find! A great little church in the middle of no where. Next to a large manor house. This isn’t one of the great Somerset churches but it is very lovely one. So peaceful. It is signed from the roads with signs which say simply, ‘Ancient Church’. There is no actual church sign outside but I can forgive St. Catherine’s much. There is a short guide and some cards available. Some 11 people had signed the visitors book in the last month. There are prayer boards and some leaflets on how to pray and different ways to  pray. Also, a copy of 1000 best churches is left open at the entry for Swell. There is also the story of St. Catherine of Alexandria. I wish that more churches would make something of their patron saint. There is a pilgrim’s stamp to use. Also, and quit unusually, there are several posters displayed with Bible verses on. All in all a lot of effort has gone into welcoming visitors here. I rate this as very good.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

St. Andrew’s, Curry Rivel

This church is open and there is a very clear welcome. The signage is very good. Only 5 visitors had signed the book in the last month. There is a question, comment and prayer board which is a bit out of the ordinary. There is also a simple notice which directs family history enquirers to the local county record office. Some children’s work is displayed. Again, there are Bible verse posters. Yet mores secondhand books for sale! There is a WW1 folder giving information on those who gave their lives during that conflict. I also found a prayer display and there is a side chapel for quiet and prayer. This is a wonderful and peaceful church which I would rate as good +.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

St. Mary Magdalen, Taunton

A large church in the centre of a bustling town. he signage is very good with a clear welcome being given to the visitor. Inside was busy as the church runs a successful cafe. There is a good books shop with a good selection of Christian books and gifts, and also so,me secondhand books. There is a private chapel for prayer and prayer slips and a votive stand to use. There is also a nice welcome notice from the vicar with a picture of his smiling visage. A good idea, although that might depend on what the vicar looks like! I would rate this as very good.

 

 

 

 

 

 

St. Jame’s, Taunton

Just down the road is St. James. Another fine church with another characteristic Somerset tower. This was sort of open . They were having a blood donors session in the church so it wasn’t possible to have a really good look around. This church is strongly evangelical and what is available inside reflects that. They even have a sign on their leaflet rack which says; ‘Have you read your Bible today?’ (I have as a matter of fact). I am not sure that that is the best welcome to give to a visitor although it is an important and worthwhile thing to do. There are some gospels and tracts available. I would rate this as OK for the visitor.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

All Saints, Trull

This is a nice church to visit. The signs outside don’t give much away but the church is open. There is a welcome notice on the door which has been made by two children. Inside there are gospels and post cards as well as one or two other leaflets to take away. There is also water and a glass for the thirsty pilgrim – something not often seen. There are pictures of the PCC members and clergy, and a happy bunch they look to be. Only 6 people had signed the visitors book in the last month. There is also a small prayer tree to hang ‘leaf’ prayers  onto.  I would   rate this as good.

 

 

 

St. Mary the Virgin, Kingston St. Mary

The visitor will find a good welcome here. There are guides to buy as well as some simple laminated sheets to wander around with. There are some other faith based leaflets as well. A children’s area is set up for use.The lectionary is left open on the last Sunday’s readings. I quite like this as I think that we can be too tidy in churches. By leaving a Bible or Lectionary open, as well as leaving hymn numbers up, we are saying that this is a living church community that worships here Sunday by Sunday. Again there are only 6 entries in the visitors book for the last month. One thing that caught my eye was ‘A resent for the Visitor’, the notice of which explained that there was a booklet of tales about the village for the visitor. Unfortunately, they seemed to have all been taken! I suppose that that is a good thing. There is quite a bit of interest at St. Mary’s and I would rate this as OK

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

St. Mary’s,North Petherton

When I visited two friendly ladies were painting the church door! Having carefully negotiated that I found myself in a very interesting church. There is a lovely quiet chapel for prayer here, a votive stand to use and a prayer request board. There are some leaflets around, including some about getting a baby baptised and about getting married. These had been locally produced to a good standard. A good local history display rounds off a good church to visit.I rate this as good.

 

 

 

 

 

St. Mary’s, Westonzoyland

Another church open with ok signage. On entering I found some guides and a children’s area.15 visitors in the last month, by the book anyway. It must actually be many more. This church is unusual because it houses the Battle of Sedgemoor Visitor Centre. This explains in some detail what has become known as the Pitchfork Rebellion of 1685. The last battle where Englishmen fought Englishmen. It is very well done. There is a prayer tree to use and an open Bible on a side altar Also yet more secondhand books! These are obviously very common.This is an interesting church with  much to offer the visitor. I would rate this as good +

St. John the Baptist, Glastonbury

Glastonbury is a strange place in many ways and it is good that St. John’s is on the High Street in the centre of town and giving a strong, Christian witness amongst many other competing ideologies. The signs are very good and very welcoming. There were some stewards on duty when I called in. There are visitors leaflets in several languages, a shop and a small lending library. A children’s area is set up to use. There is a quiet chapel and a votive stand to light candles. Many prayer slips had been laid out on an altar. This really gives a sense that they are being taken seriously.Some lights were on in the chancel to help highlight this. This really is an interesting church to visit and I would rate it ass very good. 74 people had signed the visitor book in the last month by the way.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

St. Cuthbert, Wells

A large church in the centre of this small city. It is open each day. There are guide booklets available. There is a children’s area with artwork displayed. 125 people had signed the book in the last month. A votive stand and prayer board cater for prayer. The Trinity Chapel is set aside for quiet and prayer. The Blessed Sacrament is reserved there. The roof is amazing! This i a good church for the visitor.

Wells Cathedral

My study is concerned with ordinary parish churches but I did call in on the cathedral as a contrast. What is most noticable is how professional it all is and more commercial. It is quite hard to get in without paying as you are made to feel that you have to, although it is voluntary. It is a fabulous place and well worth spending time in. There are people to give tours and a good shop and refectory. A far cry indeed from the humble parish church. I like visiting both.

 

On my way home from Essex I visited two churches I particularly wanted to see.

St. Andrew’s , Greenstead

A wonderful, Saxon, wooden building. A charming place to visit. It is very well signposted with brown signs from the main roads around.

Inside there is a guide and prayer cards available. They also sell jams and chutneys, tea towels and some booklets on the Christian faith. There is not much room inside but best use has been made of what space there is. There is a good children’s quiz as well. This is a stunning little church with a wonderful atmosphere. There are some lights left on -it would be very dark inside without these.

The Bible is open on the lectern and there are drink cartons for sale which is a nice touch.
This church is very good example of what can be done in a small church to cater for visitors. It isn’t hard but they have made a real effort here and I would rate this as very good +

Waltham Abbey

Due to an olympic venue being just down the road the roads were very busy. It was worth the effort though. This is an outstanding church. The signs outside make it very clear that the Abbey is open every day and welcomes visitors. I couldn’t count up the visitors book as it is held on today’s page by an elastic band. That is not so much of a problem but the beady eye of the lady in the shop was!

The visitor centre sells all sorts of goodies. There are books to buy, children’s as well, prayer cards, etc etc. Mostly of good quality. There are guide books (several).

There are two votive stands to use, a prayer book, and a unity chapel to pray for churches to work together. There is a good display of ‘The Church in Action’ showing various local events.  There is also another chapel (The Lady Chapel) for quiet which is very well labelled in a non threatening way. The best thing of all is a children’s prayer corner – what an excellent idea.

I would rate this church as excellent for the visitor. Easily the best I have seen so far.

The sun has shone and the lanes and roads of East Anglia have beckoned. This journey has become something of a pilgrimage as I have sought out some lovely, holy, places.

St. Mary the Virgin, Cavendish

Just in Suffolk, but right on the border, lies the lovely little village of Cavendish. St. Mary’s church is right at it’s heart, and what a gem it is. The signs tell passers by that this church is open every day. Inside they sell guide books, postcards, prayer cards and other cards as well. There are some booklets to take away about the Christian faith.

Some 29 people had signed the visitors book in the last month. There are some interesting things to see in this church. There is a memorial to Leonard Cheshire and Sue Ryder, along with some press cuttings all about their remarkable lives. There is also a folder of photos about a recent flower festival – which looked to be very good. There is a prayer desk here for the pilgrim and the Bible is left open.

For children, there is a children’s pew, even better it is at the front of the church not tucked away in a dark corner. There is a leaflet about the ‘Angels and Pinnacles’ trail as well.

A very interesting church to visit and I would rate this as very good.

St. Peter and St. Paul, Clare

Another beautiful corner of Suffolk. This time a small town. I was fortunate enough to arrive just in time to take part in their weekly mid week eucharist. A simple, said service which was much appreciated. A friendly bunch too.

But, to the church. This is also open every day and the signs outside say as much too. Inside this wonderful church there is a little shop which sells various items, including a nice range of prayer cards. Children are catered for too with a children’s areas set up ready to go and a nice children’s leaflet about the church – all too rare.

There is a prayer chapel where pilgrims can pray before the Reserved Sacrament. The church community is brought to life also with displays about a children’s Pentecost event as well as recent church history. Lots of pictures of people having fun.

There is a votive stand to use and a prayer board – some of these were prayed for during our service.

This church is doing a very good job to welcome the visitor and I would rate it as very good. Recommended.

St. Nicholas, Castle Hedingham

Back into Essex having negotiated a recently re laid road. At least Essex County Council are repairing their roads, even though it is a bit tricky for bikers.

St. Nicholas is tucked away. It features an unusual brick built tower. The church is open. Inside you can buy a guide book and there are post cards of bible verses which visitors are encouraged to take away to remind them of their visit. A nice idea. 12 people had signed the visitors book in the last month. I am sure that many more have been here but this is the only indication that we have of numbers. There are also pictures of church people here to remind visitors that this is not just a pretty building.

There is a prayer board to use. I would rate this church as OK from a visitor point of view.

St. Mary Magdalen, Wetherfield

I hadn’t got this on my list to visit but, going through the village I noticed that this church looked to be open so I stopped. I’m glad I did. It is a smashing little church with some good features. The sign outside just gave basic information. Inside, there are cards for sale and ‘Inspire’ magazine which is a Christian slant on the Olympic games and so topical. There is a children’s area with colouring.

What really caught my eye here was this –

A side altar is used as a prayer area for visitors. There are votive lights to use and some books of prayers for guidance. All very well done. There is also a toilet here open for visitors.

All in all, I would rate this as good. Well worth a visit.

St. John the Baptist, Finchingfield

A real gem of an Essex village – impossibly beautiful. As I was parking my bike near the village green a man rode past on another BMW. He turned around and stopped near me and proceeded to tell me that this must be the only place in England where there is a sign prohibiting motorcycles from parking on part of the green. He thought that people should complain about it. He then rode off. I did look but couldn’t see the sign so cannot verify whether this is true or not. You do meet some interesting people on a bike.

Anyway, back to the church. St. John the Baptist is open for the visitor. Inside you can find guide books, Christian bookmarks, cards and some postcards. There is also a very nice children’s guide which is well illustrated – one of the best I have seen. 25 people had signed the book in the last month.

There is a votive stand to use and a prayer book which has loads of entries in it. The church is protected by CCTV.

I would rate this as good.

St. Mary the Virgin, Radwinter

This was unfortunately locked with no indication of when it might be open. There is a sign kept behind the church wall which says ‘church open’ so it must be sometimes. Checking the Radwinter website I read ‘The Church is open on the first Saturday of each month 10:00 am until 1:00 pm. Come in for a look around, coffee, biscuits, cakes for sale.’ This is fine but a simple sign on the church would be useful for the visitor. This does look well worth a visit but I do have to rate it as very poor from a visitor point of view.

St. Mary the Virgin,Saffron Walden

A wonderful town, full of old world charm. St. Mary’s was busy as they were hosting a lunchtime recital. There are sandwiches and drinks available for these free concerts (donations invited). Today’s was by Diana Hoy – Contralto and Wendy Watts on the piano. They were very good but it did make wandering around the church a bit difficult.

There is a prayer tree here, a prayer board and a chapel for private prayer as well as a votive stand. All these seemed to be well used. There is also a good range of locally produced leaflets – a free walk around guide,

Children welcome at St Mary’s (there is a large children’s areas set up at the back)

Getting married at St Mary’s

Death and bereavement

Healing ministry at St Mary’s

Lord, teach us to pray

All very well done. There is also a decent Christina lending library with a good selection of up to date books.

A very good church by my rating.

St. John The Baptist, Thaxted

Oh, Thaxted, long a favourite of mine because of it’s former vicar, Conrad Noel. This is a definite place of pilgrimage for me and I relish walking into this lovely, lovely church.

There is much to commend this place from a visitors point of view. There are lots of leaflets and booklets available inside and even copies of the ‘Thaxted Mass’. There are lots of prayer cards and local interest cards as well.

There is a children’s area, a votive stand – this is definitely a place to light candles and prayer requests. The signs welcome the visitor.

This is a very special place indeed and I would rate it as very good.

St. Mary’s, Great Bardfield

This church is open for visitors, and the signs welcome you in.

Here you can purchase mugs, featuring the church, as well as cards and guide books. There is a votive stand to use and a prayer board. The visitors book, very surprisingly, showed only 2 visitors in the last month. That can’t be right!

There is a good display of children’s work.

I would give this a rating of good.

St. Mary’s, Little Easton

Tucked down a little lane next to Little Easton Gardens sits St. Mary’s church. Outside is a simple board which says ‘Church always open’. That says it all really.

There is lots to like about this church. There are good wall paintings and some excellent modern stained glass. One is a memorial to the US 386th Bomb group who were stationed near by during WW2.

You can even do brass rubbing here, which I have not seen in a long time. For the visitor there is a very good guide and some good local history. There are prayer cards to purchase as well. There is a toilet here as well. This is a really interesting church and it is surprising that there are only 9 visitors recorded in the book for the last month.

I would rate this church as good.

 

 

St. Mary the Virgin, Little Dunmow

Firmly locked with, again, no indication of when it might be open. However, there was a nice swarm of bees on the end wall of the church which is good to see.

On checking the website – http://www.felstedchurch.org.uk/#/home teher si no mention of opening which is a shame. People often like to visit churches outside of service times!

I would have to rate this as very poor

Today has been spent around the highways and byways of Essex. A county often maligned for it’s supposed chav culture but a place of great beauty when you take the time to look at what is around. I have really enjoyed visiting some lovely churches. Perhaps none with the magnificence of Suffolk but some real gems none the less. This is what I have found-

St. George, Great Bromley.

It is always good to start my visits with a good one and St. George’s is just that. A great church, not far from Colchester. It was open with basic signage outside but a lovely welcome notice in the porch. Inside there are some guide booklets and some interesting leaflets about the Christian life, including one about the Sacrament of Reconciliation – very unusual but very welcome. There were only 12 visitors in the book over the last month.

There is a prayer board, a votive stand and a side chapel for private prayer. A very nice touch is a candle for St. George’s, Baghdad. There is also a good display about the Stone family – ancient and modern.

I would rate this church as good and it is well worth a visit.

 

 

 

 

All Saints, Brightlingsea

Unfortunately, this church was firmly locked with no indication at all as to when it might be open. A shame, as this is a church which is often mentioned in various guide books. I would have to rate this as very poor form the point of view of my study.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

St. Mary the Virgin, Layer Marney

An unusual, brick built church which sits just behind the Tudor pile which  is Layer Marney Tower. The church is approached down a track and well worth visiting it is. There is no sign outside but a very good welcome in the porch. This church has a lovely, peaceful atmosphere. There are some impressive monuments to various members of the Marney family. There is a free guide sheet and 45 visitors had signed the book this month. There is a secondhand book stall which might be a library! It is not at all clear. I was impressed with this church as there is a lot to see. I would have to0 rate it as only OK though. Just a bit more thought into welcoming the many visitors who come here would be well rewarded I feel.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

St. Mary the Virgin, Maldon

One of two Anglican churches open in Maldon. This is a nice little town with it’s river frontage, and some Thames sailing barges moored there.

This is the church in Church Street just up from the river. The first thing that struck me as I went inside was just how cool it was (it was 28 c outside). The second was the lingering smell of incense and the third was the relative starkness of the interior. It is a church which exudes a sense of the holy. The sign outside was OK but there was a nice welcome notice in the porch which gave a sense that here is a church which really welcomes the visitor. There are a selection of gospel imprint leaflets (these are very good) – downloadable from http://www.gospelimprint.co.uk. Also a guide and an unusual leaflet , ‘Be still and Know that I am God: Praying the Mass’ all about preparing for worship. Here is a church which takes it’s worship seriously as well.

There is a votive stand, a prayer book and a holy water stoup as you enter. Water is also left in the font which is a rare sight.

I enjoyed my visit to this church as, no doubt, had the 17 others who had signed the visitors book in the last month.

I would rate this as very good.

Then up the High Street to-

 

 

 

All Saints with St. Peter, Maldon

Another nice church to visit. There is a very clear welcome sign which tells all who pass by that the church is open every day. Inside, there is some guides and a lot of effort has gone into a prayer area. There is a votive stand with prayer slips for a prayer tree (these seem to have become very popular).

There are a selection of prayer booklets and some pray sheets to guide people. All very well done.

There is also a children’s area left set up. I couldn’t see a visitors book. A satisfying visit and I would rate this church as very good. The, a visit to Greggs opposite in order to satisfy the inner man. Then onto the highlight of the day.

The Chapel of St. Peter on the Wall, Bradwell on Sea

I have long wanted to visit here. Having parked there is a track across farmland to this very simple but ancient chapel. It is the sight of a mission by St. Cedd but had fallen out of use and was only re consecrated in 1920. It has become a site of pilgrimage as well as being used for daily worship by the Othona Community who reside nearby.

It is a very simple structure being essentially one room. There is a small display of history and guides and various leaflets about Celtic spirituality. Postcards are for sale. The visitors book was full and hundreds sign it each month.

On the altar is a sunflower made up of lots of separate prayer petals. The visitor is invited to add another. Very simple and very moving. In fact it is impossible to praise this chapel enough. It is simply a place where God is very present. One of those real ‘thin places’ as George Macleod used to say. I would rate this chapel as excellent and it is highly recommended for the visitor.

This part of Essex has some lovely churches and here is another-

St. Thomas, Bradwell on Sea

This is in the village. It was open with a good selection of leaflets for the visitor inside. There are Celtic prayers, gospels and others available. Also a guide and post cards. There is a basket of books for children to look at. There is a prayer board and a box for prayers.

There are copies of booklets about Baptism, bereavement and what the Christian faith is about. All from the excellent Redemptorist Press range.

This is a lovely church to visit and I would rate it as good/very good.

 

 

St. Lawrence Rural Discovery Church

This is an unusual church

as it is closed to regular worship but has instead found a role as a visitor center which holds regular exhibitions. It is not open mid week but only at the weekends. There are some leaflets for children though in a special holder. It gives a a simple discovery trail.
This whole church is an idea that deserves to succeed. Obviously I haven’t rated this for this study.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Christ Church, Latchingdon

Unfortunately locked with, again, no indication of when it might be open for a look around. Very poor, especially as this church is in the heart of the village.

It does have a composting toilet in a shed at the back though.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

St. Nicholas, Tolleshunt D’Arcy

I wasn’t at all impressed with this church. Again, in the centre of a village but again firmly locked. What makes this a particularly poor example is that there is a poster in the porch (see picture). Are you really welcoming people????

A real shame as this does look worth a visit.

I rate this as very poor indeed.

Then lastly today a good one to end up with.

 

 

 

 

 

St. John the Baptist, Layer de La Haye

This church is right next to a big new reservoir project so it might start top get more visitors. There is a sign advertising the tower being open at weekends with reservoir  views. It is good to see a church using a local opportunity.

Inside there is a guide and a bell guide – they seem to be very proud of their bells. There are post cards for sale. Only 4 visitors in the last 2 months had signed the book which is surprising. There are yet more secondhand books for sale – this seems to be popular in some churches! As well as a small library with very old books – does anyone borrow them?  There is a good display of Messy Church, The Catherine Bullen Foundation in Namibia and the Diamond Jubilee. It shows that this church cares about what happens in the world as well as in the parish.It is an interesting church to visit and I rate it as good.

Another hot day and a whole crop of good churches visited. This is a great opportunity to see what is happening around the country. Thank you to all of you who have got in touch about my visits (I leave a card to say I have been). Your feedback is useful to me. Lets see what tomorrow brings!

The sun has shone and I have been enjoying plodding around the highways and byways of South Suffolk. There are some really lovely churches in this area, some of which get loads of visitors. So here goes…

Holy Trinity, Boxted – a small church with a sign on the door saying that it is open every day, but today it isn’t! A shame as this is reckoned to be well worth a visit. 

St. Peter & St. Paul, Lavenham. What can you say about this church other than wow! It is an incredible place and you can only wonder at the skill of the people who built it. It was open, as it is every day. The signs are good, with a very clear welcome to the visitor.Inside, I found a whole range of guide books. There are even free ones, both for adults and for children, that is excellent. Some of these are available in different languages. There is a children’s corner, with colouring etc. 108 people had signed the visitors book in the last month but this church must get many more visitors than that. There is a votive stand and a prayer book which is very well used. There are also prayer cards and a small collection of Christian books for sale. The selection is very good. There is also a folder giving details of those on the WW 1 memorial. There is also a second hand book stall. There is a lovely sign addressed to the visitor on the way out.

I would rate this church as very good indeed for the visitor and it is good example of how to take visitors seriously.

All Saints, Acton –  Unfortunately the church was locked. In all fairness there is a sign on the door which does say to ring the wardens and they will try their best to oblige, but time precluded me doing this. I expect that quite a few casual visitors would do the same. On the way out I noticed a sign hidden behind a wall which says ‘Church open 11-3pm’. I was there at 11.15. Subsequent information from one the wardens – the church is open when people can church sit as there have been some problems with theft and vandalism. I would rate this as OK though and this is a church well worth a visit. It is probably best to make some arrangements to visit. See http://www.allsaintschurchacton.vpweb.co.uk for more info, including some nice pictures and a history.

For now, you will just have to make do with a picture of the outside.

Holy Trinity, Long Melford – another Suffolk gem. This was open and busy with visitors. The signage is good with a good welcome in the porch and the door. There are various guides available, prayer cards and various local history booklets. Again, a good selection. There is children’s corner set up but no guide for them. The Clapton Chapel is available for private prayer with a prayer book to enter prayers into. This is a really lovely space and is well set out.

There is again a Roll of Honour folder giving details of WW1 casualties. This is a very welcome development. There is a prayer tree and a votive stand to use. There are stewards on duty here who very very friendly – very important! These people are the face of the Church. 

I would rate this church as very good and an essential one to visit.

St. Gregory, Sudbury– there are two  Anglican churches in Sudbury. St. Peter’s in the Market Place is now closed but used for exhibitions. St. Gregory’s is now the parish church. The signs outside are basic but there is a good welcome notice in the porch. Inside there was a good wedding booklet for couples thinking of marrying in church – a good idea worth copying. There is a children’s corner left set up. There is no guide book. There is a visitors book but there are no dates so this couldn’t be counted. There are quite a few visitors though. There is a votive stand to use and a prayer corner ( a very good one), with leaflets and prayers to use. A lot of thought has gone into this. There are also some good modern Stations of the Cross with an explanation.

I would rate this church as pretty good. It could do with a bit more of thought being given to the visitor.

St. Mary’s , Kersey – this church was open with good signs. There is a free guide sheet for the visitor and cards for sale. More secondhand books! 39 people had signed the book in the last month. There is an open Bible and the previous Sunday’s intercessions are left on the altar which is a nice touch. I would rate this church as good.

St. Mary’s, Hadleigh. Another delightful Suffolk town with a magnificent church. It was open with very good signage and a clear welcome. Inside there are several local leaflets which give tourist information for the local area. There are guides -some multi lingual. Yet more secondhand books! To be honest, I am not sure what impression this gives. This church gets used for a cafe style service for youngsters so there is a couple of pool tables in there. There is plenty of room and it is good to see a church used for more than Sunday services. 34 people had signed the visitor book in the last month. There is an open Bible and prayer cards to take away. The prayer corner had a folder of suitable prayers to use – a good idea.  There is also a prayer chapel and a votive stand to use. There were copies of ‘What do Christians believe?’ by the Christian Enquiry Agency.

I would rate St. Mary’s as very good.

St. Mary, Polstead open with basic signs but a welcome in the porch. There were some good leaflets inside – ‘Introduction the to Psalms’ + Paul’s Letters, Mark and Luke’s Gospel. These are produced by the Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich and are pretty good. There are 2 children’s tables out with colouring etc. There is a nice display of baptisms in recent years. There is a prayer desk with some suggested prayers in a book. 

A lady was sunbathing in the churchyard! I would rate this church as very good.

St. Mary, Stoke by Nayland – this was open with basic signs. Inside are guides and post cards for sale. There is a clearly signed children’s area. 37 people had signed the visitors book in the last month. There is an unusual children’s memorial in the church. There is a history display, a prayer chapel to use and a prayer book, which is well used and prayed for. There is a display about the brasses in the church. 

I would rate this church as good.

St. Mary’s, Bures This was open with basic signs. There is a guide and a booklet; ‘What happens here?’ again by the Diocese of St. Edmundsbury and Ipswich. There is a lending library and an unusual ‘Prayer Space’ with candles and prayer slips.

I would rate this as good.

St. Mary’s, Dedham – a very well visited church.The church is open and there is a bookstall with a number of cards, prayer cards, crosses and a selection of Christian books for sale. 260 visitors had signed the visitors book which gives an indication of how many people come in here. There are lights left on in the chancel. There is a votive stand and a prayer diary to take away. There is a rather strange room, more of a cupboard really, with a light on and a banner in it! I am not sure what that is for. There are laminated guides to use in English, Italian, Spanish, German and French. This is an interesting church to visit.

I would rate this church as very good for the visitor.

St. Mary the Virgin, Lawford – into Essex for this one. A lovely little  church down a small lane. It is open with basic signage. There is a very good selection of leaflets available – ‘A thoughtful walk through Lawford Church’, book marks, families, baptism, what’s on, Sunday’s and Weddings, all professionally printed and excellent resources. There is a prayer tree and a votive candle stand but these are well out of the way, which is a shame. 

This is a good church for the visitor.

A good day in South Suffolk – more to come!

Perhaps not actually – anyone know where this quote comes from? Answer at the end.

With the promise of rain it seemed sensible to not venture too far from home. Today, then, I pottered around Buckinghamshire with a brief venture into Bedfordshire (and saw no rain!).

All Saints, Wing.

A really special church, parts of which date back to Saxon times. The signage is very good indeed being clearly open and welcoming to the visitor.

Inside I found the set of Oxford Diocesan leaflets. There is also a children’s area left set up. 29 people had signed the visitors book in the last month.

Also, there are folders on the war memorial and also one detailing the Commonwealth War Graves Commission records. As I have already noted this is a very welcome development in many churches. There is a prayer book to use and a quiet area in a side chapel – which is not labelled up for prayer use but certainly lends itself to it. There is also a small lending library.

All in all this is a church which has given a lot of thought towards welcoming visitors and deserves a rating of very good.

All Saints, Leighton Buzzard

This is a lovely town centre church. There was a good bustle about it on my visit as they were preparing the excellent church cafe which runs on Thursdays and Fridays. The people doing this were friendly and welcoming to an obvious visitor (being festooned with a camera is a bit of a give away). There is a clear welcome from the signs which make it plain that the church is open every day.

Inside, there is a good selection of guides and a few books for sale. Only one person in the visitors book in the last month! This is probably because it is tucked out of the way and not at all obvious. There is votive stand and a prayer board both of which were in use. There is also a lovely side chapel for prayer and a toilet for visitors to use.

This is a good church to visit. There is much of interest and I would give it a rating of very good. I do feel that just a little more thought into how visitors are welcomed wouldn’t go amiss.

St. Mary’s, Woburn

Woburn was busy with people today so it was disappointing to find St. Mary’s firmly locked. And, to make it worse, there is no indication of when it might be open nor where a key could be obtained from. A quick look on their website (www.woburnparishchurch.org.uk) has this, ‘Whoever you are or where you are from, you are all very welcome.

At St. Mary’s we want to help people of all ages to discover the wonderful love of God, and to help Christians to grow in their faith and to serve Jesus Christ in every area of their lives.’ Apparently not if you are an interested visitor – this church is in ‘A Thousand Best Churches’. The website might need re wording! I would rate this church as very poor as no effort has gone into welcoming the visitor. It is rather depressing and a missed opportunity in a place like Woburn.

Holy Trinity, Drayton Parslow

This was locked as well. Although, in all fairness, there is a notice which tells the visitor to ring one of the wardens to enable access. A pretty little church which does look worth a visit. Not rated.

St. Swithun’s, Swanbourne

A delightful little church which was open. There is a welcome sign on the gate which is always good to see.

Inside was a simple church guide and some of the Diocese of Oxford leaflets. There is a children’s area but only 4 visitors in the book in the last year! A bit surprising really as St. Swithun’s is the sort of church worth seeking out. There are copies of the parish registers from 1565 – 1836 which must be of use to genealogists.

There is a bible left open on the lectern as well. I would rate this church as good.

St. Laurence, Winslow

I happened up St. Laurence as they were preparing for a school leavers service so could only take a quick look. The signs are OK but do not mention that the church is open to visitors. I assume that the church is normally open. The website (www.stlaurencewinslow.org.uk/ ) doesn’t mention it.

There are the usual Oxford Diocesan leaflets and a church guide. The visitors book had been signed by 14 people in the last month. There is a small book shop and a children’s area. Overall a good church for the visitor.

St. John the Baptist, Granborough

This lovely little country church is open. The signs outside are basic and there is no guide available inside that I could see. Only 1 visitor recorded in the last month! They must get more than this. There is a good display of people and events which really does help to bring the church to life. They all appeared to be having a great time! There are three things that make this church stand out. There are some good angels painted on the East wall and an interesting alabaster crucifixion scene displayed. A guide would be useful here to give some more information! Also there is the most amazing heating system – two simple flues which extend up through the roof. I am not sure how effective they would be on a cold day but someone must have a nice little job of keeping them stocked up. This is the sort of little detail that I like to notice!

Overall I would rate this church as just about OK. So much more could be done here with a little effort.

The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, North Marston

This little church exudes a sense of holiness. It used to be a pilgrimage destination as the one time Rector, Sir John Schorne, is supposed to have conjured the devil into a boot! There are quite a few ‘The Boot’ pubs around Bucks and these would have been on pilgrims routes. The remains of the shrine can be seen – picture below.

Today’s pilgrims can kneel there and bring their petitions to God as our medieval forebears once did. There is a real sense of both history and holiness here. The signs outside are basic. There is a prayer book to enter prayers in to – this is well used which is good to see. Also there is a prayer tree which could do with a suitable label on it to make it a bit more obvious. There is a church guide and a nice 1617 chained Bible on display. The Bible is left open on the lectern. This is a really wonderful church with a great story to tell. So much could be made of this. I can think of several other examples of similar churches which have become real magnets for pilgrims. This could easily be one of them with not much effort – a good one for The Small Pilgrim Places Network perhaps? – http://www.smallpilgrimplaces.org/

I can really only give St. Laurence an OK because there is so much potential here. A recommended visit!

St. Michael and All Angels, Waddesdon

I bit of a sad one this. On the door is a notice-

It is real shame that they have been left with no choice but to lock this delightful church. I am not sure what the answer is. I obviously cannot rate this one.

There you have it. A mixed day with good and bad. Lets see what the next visits bring.

Oh, and the quote? ‘Fly on a Windshield’ from the  Genesis album ‘The Lamb lies down on Broadway.’

I have been collecting leaflets and booklet as I have traveled around the various churches I have visited. I thought it might be instructive to share a few thoughts from this collecting. These fall into a few categories. There is, firstly, the obligatory church guide. Some of these are very good being well printed and presented. It is not just bigger churches

which you might expect to have greater resources in order to produce something good. Saint John the Evangelist, Ickham Kent, has the above. It is of an unusual  format being an A3 folded sheet. It has a suggested donation price of £1. A very good effort.

Another good effort is this – here 5 rural churches have produced a joint guide. Again, this is professionally printed. It is informative and sells for £3.

Then there are the very common freebies given out by churches. Again, very variable in quality. A few are very good indeed. Most are produced on the office photocopier and do suffer from that sometimes. I really do think that we have to make a bit of an effort when we produce materials to give out. Even on a tiny budget it is possible to produce leaflets which are, at the very least, of a presentable quality. Typically, there is a welcome note from the vicar, some historical facts to guide the visitor and some information about the life of the church. Here is a good example, along with a simple prayer leaflet, from Cirencester.

Some churches spend a bit more and produce some very nice free guides. Here are two I picked up in Northleach – a book mark and a ‘To help you pray’ leaflet. Professionally printed. Obviously this costs a bit more, but isn’t prohibitive if you can order a lot at a time. They do give a very good impression and say that here is a church which takes it’s visitors seriously.

So far, so straightforward but, then we get into more difficult territory.

Children – it is actually quite rare to find a leaflet of booklet aimed at the younger visitor. Sometimes those that are on offer are simplistic, patronising and naff. Some churches, unfortunately very few that I have yet found, are making an effort. Here are two, a locally produced one for younger children from Northleach and a published one from Cirencester, which is a bit dated but is much better than nothing. This last one retails for 25p in the church shop. It is by Spectrum Publications in St Albans – I am not sure that they are still in business. There is a gap in the market here but it is quite a difficult thing to do well – certainly worth a try though.

Then there is the whole area of trying to communicate the Christian faith to the visitor. It hasn’t really surprised me that very few churches are making much effort in this area. Some are though. Those that do provide something tend to fall into two camps. Firstly there are evangelical churches who provide a stack of tracts which are often very wordy and rather worthy but I do really wonder how well this sort of thing communicates with the average visitor. A good example of this genre is ‘the real Jesus’ by Rico Tice and Barry Cooper. My copy was picked up in Burford church.

I find this rather depressing. For a start, the cover is attractive but the inside is just words. There are no illustrations at all.  Thetext starts by telling the story of Jesus, all well and good, but, as you read on, it moves into the whole realm of sustitutionary atonement with dire warnings about sin. Not much about love. Then, in order to clinch the argument, there is a story quoted from the American Civil War about a soldier who willingly gives up his life to save another. It is a good story (probably apocryphal) but I cannot see how such speaks to a person toady. Then there is the use of male language throughout – cannot women be saved by a faith in Jesus? Of course, it ends with the obligatory prayer for Jesus to come into my life, and an invitation to join a ‘Christianity Explored’ course and get a free book. I bet that is  a good read.

Some won’t like this but it really isn’t good enough. All this does is reinforce the negative stereotypes that people sometimes have of the church, that it is completely out of touch and irrelevant to peoples everyday lives.

Fortunately there are a few better alternatives – unfortunately only a few. Once upon a time, there was a charity called Scripture Gift Mission. These produced free leaflet, nice and bright but hampered by one thing.

They ever only used the words of scripture which severely limited the leaflets usefulness. Roll forward a few years and they have become sgm Lifewords. The range of leaflets is less extensive than it was but they are now rather good. Above is picture of ‘Look around you’ a foldout leaflet which gives a meditative walk around a church building. So, for instance there is a simple meditation on the church door, being a symbol of God’s welcome. Then a verse from Psalm 100 – ‘Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures for ever.’ Then it concludes with a prayer –

‘God, thank you that you are here. Thank you that you know who I am and you welcome me.’

Very good.

The other camp is –  Some churches have recognised the problem of suitable leaflets and produced their own. The best of these I have so far come across are these:-

Tony Windross, the Vicar of St. Leonard’s Hythe has produced a series of twelve leaflets which cover topics such as ‘ Why bother to think about religious questions?’, ‘Why bother to think about God?’, ‘Why bother to think about Holy Communion?’ and several other topics. These are simple, thoughtful and well produced. They are available as a book as well – ‘The thoughtful guide to faith’ by Tony Windross.

An extremely good effort. It is a pity that a few more churches didn’t try to produce something. We are rather missing a trick here I think.

Obviously, the views expressed here are purely my own!

As today looked set to be at best showery I decided not to venture too far afield. I started with the local church-

All Saints, Birchington. This is only open on Saturday mornings – but it is well advertised that this is the case which is acceptable in my opinion. The signage is very good and had at least alerted me to the church being open today. When I got inside I was welcomed by the steward on duty, a friendly lady who was keen to tell what there was of interest in the church. There are some laminated guides to the church, the windows, bells etc. There are various leaflets available, including a very few on Christianity. I wasn’t able to count up the visitors book but it looked to have quite a few names in it. There are some good displays about Birchington through the years and of recent church events. There are some lovely pictures of the congregation including one board entitled, ‘Characters of Birchington’. This does help to convey something of the life of the church to the visitor. This a votive stand to use and a side chapel which could well be used for private prayer (the Quex Chapel). I went to the service on the Sunday and they are indeed a very welcoming church – thoroughly recommended.

I would rate this church as very good for the visitor.

St. Mary’s, Chartham. A delightful church in a lovely spot next to the village green and the railway station (which still has manually operated level crossing gates – surprising for a quite busy line). Unfortunately the church is only open from 3 – 5pm each afternoon. This is clearly marked. I can’t rate this one.

St. Mary’s, Chilham. A famous little village which gives a sense of going back in time. St. Mary’s was open and the signs all invite the visitor to enter and pray like generations before have done. There is also a welcome in French, German and Dutch. Inside there are free guides to the church as well as ones which can be purchased. There are also cards for sale and a table of secondhand books. There is a votive stand to use and some prayer slips which are placed on a side altar to be prayed for. This appeared to be well used. This church in monitored by CCTV. Also there were some copies of the ‘100 Minute Bible’ for sale at £2.50. For children there is a churchyard trail and a churchyard nature trail. All in all a lot of thought has gone into welcoming the visitor. 80 people had signed the visitors book in the last month. I would rate this as a very good church.

St. Leonard, Badlesmere. This church gets a good write up in the recent AA book of Churches and Chapels. John Betjeman also rated it highly. I can see why. It is not much from the outside but inside it is a real gem of a church. There are box pews again and a complete, and rare, 18th century interior. There is a guide and some nice cards and pictures for sale, and some mugs with the church on them. The signs outside are basic but it is signed from the main road which helps to find it. There was also two pews of books for loan – ‘short or long term if you wish.’ 8 people had signed the book in the last month. There is a Jubilee display of children’s work in two pews. The Bible is left open at a Psalm. This is a very simple, very humble, but very beautiful church which is well worth a visit. Overall rating OK + for visitors.

Then lastly, as by now the rain had really set in is St. Mary of Charity, Faversham. This large town centre church is full of interest and they have made an especial effort for the visitor. There wasn’t a visitors book but several people came in whilst I was there so this must get many visitors. The signage is very good. There are guides available in several languages. There is also a good ‘trail’ laid out around the church which points out the historical and spiritual significance of things such as the font, chancel etc. This is very well done with careful explanations. There are also some excellent displays and a whole range of leaflets on things of interest. One display explains what we can expect to see in a church, another sets out the church year. There is a votive stand to use. I would rate this church as very good.

Had a great day visiting churches in East Kent today. Just one little shower which is a big improvement on yesterday, when I rode all the way from Rye in rain. Never mind.

Started today in Broadstairs, at Holy Trinity – the parish church of this delightful, old fashioned sea side resort. This church used to be kept locked but wiser counsels have prevailed and it now open much more. The signs outside are OK but could do with explaining when the church is open for visitors. Inside it was a hive of industry as Friday morning is cleaning time. They are a friendly bunch who obviously enjoy their time together. The church is well loved and everything is clean and shiny. There are lots of leaflets and booklets for visitors. They make good use of the Gospel Imprint leaflets and align themselves with Affirming Catholicism so these are a good fit.There are prayer cards and booklets to buy. I bought a ‘Let us Pray’ booklet which will be useful. There is a children’s corner with books and 34 people had signed the visitors book in the last month. There is a lot of attention given to prayer. They produce their own leaflet, ‘The Engine Room of Prayer’ which is good to see.It gives a simple form of daily prayer then topics for prayer for each day of the month. One page lists every business and facility in the town so, for instance, on the 9th you can pray for ‘Pizza Hut: Broadstairs kebab, R & J Moore: Ward & Partners: Tonela Group: Your Move: Straight Lines Hairdressers.’ This is an excellent idea which deserves to be widely copied. There is a votive stand, prayer board (well used) and a chapel for quiet prayer. All in all a delightful church which I would rate as very good – it would be excellent if the external signs made opening hours clear.

Then onto St. Mary’s, Minster in Thanet. Here the external signs are very basic but the church is open. Inside a light comes on when you enter. There is a history and some local history cards for ale as well as some of the traditional ‘paddle boards’ to walk around with. Only 10 visitors in the book in the last month. There was another friendly flower lady ( a bit of a feature of Friday morning visits). There is a delightful side chapel which is not labeled for private prayer but is good for this. There is a prayer tree which is a bit tucked out of the way – I would put it into the North chapel and make that a focus for prayer.

I would rate this church as OK.

St. Clement’s, Sandwich. This was open with a very clear sign welcoming visitors. They have stewards here and the man I saw was very friendly and handed me a ‘Spiritual Trail’ leaflet which had been professionally printed and gives historical information and some suggestions for prayer on your way around the building. An excellent resource. The steward told me that they received many thousands of visitors every year from all around the world. Sandwich is a popular destination and well worth a wander around. There are other guides to buy (some in different languages) and a good children’s guide (which I wished I had bought a copy of). They have prayer slips here with a clear sign saying that they will be prayed at their next mid week service. This really does treat the visitor seriously. There is also a votive stand with some simple cards, one of which says, ‘I lit a candle for you at St. Clement’s, Sandwich’. A lovely touch. There is also a simple leaflet of ‘Prayer Intentions’ to take away.There is a good, modern, meeting room that has been created in the South aisle – a good example of how too make an old building very usable. I would rate St. Clements as very good and enjoyed my visit.

St. Mary’s, Wingham. This was unfortunately temporarily closed due to an art exhibition that is being held over the coming weekend. A shame as the sign outside gives a clear invite to come in. From previous visits I know that the visitor is well catered for so I can give this a good rating.

St. John the Evangelist, Ickham. This church is in a wonderful setting. The signs are basic but it is open. There is a good history sheet available – one of the best I have seen, but nothing else. 15 people had signed the visitors book in the last month. There is a good folder on the war dead. This is an idea that seems to be a feature of more and more churches. It is a good local history project to do that does bring both the building and the local community alive. There is a side chapel here which is not labeled for prayer but could usefully be so. There are pictures of the vicars back to 1839!

I would rate this as OK but much more could be done.

St. Vincent, Littlebourne. I was eyed a bit suspiciously by two locals when arrived. A sign explained that there had been a recent attempt to steal some lead which might be a reason. It is open. The signs are basic and only 3 visitors had signed the book in the last month. There was a nice quote on the font and an open Bible on the lectern.There is a statue of St Vincent but nothing about him. That would be good as he is an unusual dedication. I would rate this church as OK for the visitor but it could be so much better with just a little effort.

St. Mary’s, Patrixbourne. A delightful church with much of interest. The external sings are basic but there is a good board about the parish. Inside there are 2 histories and some walking maps available. There is a sign about the ‘Via Francigena’ (the ancient road between Rome and Canterbury – now that would be a walk) and a pilgrim’s stamp to use. There is a sand tray with some night lights but no signs at all as to what to do with it! A bit half hearted really. I would rate this as OK ish. Again, it could be so much better.

St. Martin’s, Herne. A large church on a main road in the centre of the village. There is a lot of information on the sign board (probably too much) but nothing about visitors. The church is firmly locked. This is a really missed opportunity as this is a nice church building. I would have to rate this as very poor. I didn’t even take a picture.

Lastly today, St. Nicholas at Wade. A lovely church which looks like it should be in Norfolk not Kent! The signs are good and it was open, again with some friendly flower ladies. It is normally open every day but is going to be closed later this month for some major repairs. This will take some time and services are being held elsewhere. There are lots of leaflets available and guides and prayer cards. They take their many visitors seriously here. They make much of their patron saint, and why not as St. Nicholas is well worth celebrating. He is the origin of our ‘Father Christmas’ and much more worthy than a strange rotund gentlemen in a red suit! There is a professionally produced welcome card for visitors, and a leaflet on ‘Images of our Patron Saint’. Both are excellent. There are also lots of pictures of happy church people which really brings out that this is a living church. There is a daily prayer sheet to take away and a children’s guide too. Also some prayer ideas for visitors. One unusual feature is a couple of candles near the war memorial. There is simple sign saying ‘Afghanistan Casualties – 419‘. This is updated regularly and is a poignant reminder of the cost of war.

I would rate this church as very good.

All in all and enjoyable days visiting.

This is one of my favourite areas of the country. I adore the wide open skies and it seems to have a beauty all of it’s own – different to the fenland of East Anglia, more intimate and softer. I started today at one of my all time favourite churches;

St. Leonard’s, Hythe. A magnificent building high up above the town. This is an excellent church for the visitor – they have put a lot of effort into making people welcome. The external signs are very good and in the porch there are welcome notices in several languages. Inside there

are a lot of leaflets available, including a good set, written by the Vicar, on various subjects. Also histories of various sorts. There is a small library where books can be taken. For children there are colouring pens and pencils left out as well as paper. There is a prayer corner with a box for prayer slips as well as a votive stand. The Calvary Chapel is reserved for private prayer – visitors prayers are offered on the altar by placing them on top of a large Bible – a very visible way of doing this which also ensures that visitors know that their prayer requests are taken seriously. 46 people had signed the visitors book in the last month. I would rate this church as very good and it is well worth a visit. There is also the amazing crypt here with it’s thousands of bones all stacked up in neat piles.

All Saints, Burmarsh. One of the classic marsh churches. The signage is OK. The church is locked but it tells you were to obtain the key. I went to get it from a very friendly lady just opposite the church. Inside it is a simple, country church and there is nothing wrong with that. Completely unpretentious. There is a simple church guide available but nothing else. Only 3 people had signed the visitors book in the last month, having to get the key probably puts people off somewhat but it needn’t. I would rate this as OK.

Next off is St. Peter & St. Paul, Dymchurch. The door was left open, inviting me in. Signs OK outside with a good welcome in the porch. Porches are a good place to give people a welcome as well as all the usual church information. This a lovely, well cared for church. There is a history available but nothing on the faith. 9 visitors in the book in the last month. There is a heritage trail leaflet on the Romney Marsh churches which is informative and hopefully well used. I would rate this church as good for visitors. Dymchurch itself was very busy today.

St. Mary the Virgin, St. Mary in the Marsh. A quite isolated church in a picturesque spot.The sign outside is OK and there is a good welcome in the porch. There are history leaflets and a prayer board. Only 41 visitors in the book so far this year but this must be a well visited place and there were two other people in there on my visit. Like several of the marsh churches this is like walking back into the 18th century with its box pews and other contemporary fittings. With a lovely peaceful atmosphere this is another church well worth seeking out. The author, Edith Nesbit, is buried outside. Her grave is marked by a simple, wooden memorial. I would give this church a good rating.

St George’s, Ivychurch. This was open with a clear sign saying where a key could be obtained if locked. There are guides to buy but nothing on the faith. There is a children’s area and 18 people had signed the book in the last month.There is an ‘In Memoriam’ book which is a nice touch. Also a good history display (something the marsh churches seem to go in for).Also a Georgian Hudd which is a little hut which was taken out into the graveyard for the priest to use if it was wet – strange until you remember that funerals took place wholly outside years ago and, on Romney Marsh, shelter was needed. This is a very good church for the visitor.

St. Augustine, Brookland. The church with the famous and very distinctive bell tower. Signs are poor – nothing outside or in the porch. Inside there is a history available and some paddle boards in different languages. There are prayer cards for sale. There is a small quiet chapel which is not signed as being available for quiet prayer but does lend itself to that. Again there are box pews and a famous lead font. The local nursery had produced a nice jubilee display. For children there are some simple books on Bible stories to take away. Overall I would rate this as OK. The signs let it down really.

St. Dunstan, Snargate. The signs are poor. There were builders working in here with scaffolding up which meant that most things inside had been either cleared away or covered up. This made it impossible to rate this in any meaningful way. From photos I have seen this is a church well worth a visit.

St. Thomas Becket, Fairfield. The classic Romney Marsh church, out on it’s own in the fields. It is usually locked but the key is hung up on a nearby farm house. A wonderful church with such an atmospheric interior. Just a simple history guide available and some photos showing the church surrounded by water. Pretty poor for the visitor but more than made up by the atmosphere and the untouched interior. A wonderful church which must be the most photographed of all the marsh churches. I would rate this as a must. 

St. Clement, Old Romney. This church enjoys excellent signage with brown signs to direct the visitor. Inside there are cards for sale and UCB ‘Word for Today’ to take home. Also ‘My Book of Hope’, also by UCB. 68 entries in the visitor book in the last month. There is a great stone altar used here. The box pews are painted pink which is pretty striking. I would rate St Clement’s as good.

St. Nicholas, New Romney. Another magnificent marsh church.The signs are very good with an ‘open’ affixed to the door. Inside there is good provision for the visitor with cards and booklets, a very good history, prayer booklets and ‘Day by Day with God’ available. A good selection. Only 12 entries in the visitor book but it is bit tucked away. There is a holy water stoup with a clear invitation on what to do with it and the symbolism. The font is labeled so that it is clear what it is used for. There is a votive stand and prayer slips to use. I would rate this as very good.

All Saints, Lydd. Another wonderful church. The external signs are basic and could do with improving. Inside there are book marks and free leaflets about the Christian faith. Some histories and some children’s book marks. 26 visitors in the book in the last month. There is a private prayer area with candles, a prayer tree and a prayer box. All very simple but very well done. I would rate this as very good.

Then lastly today, St. Mary’s, Rye in Sussex. Not really a Romney Marsh church but I wasn’t far away so it was well worth calling in. This church draws in loads of visitors and it was pretty busy on my visit. I can see why. It is a good example a larger church and it is well set up to welcome people. There is a very clear welcome at the door with a sign saying when it shuts. There is a lot to see inside. There is a book shop, prayers for visitors ( a rare and very nice idea), various displays, a prayer net and a very well used votive stand, as well as a millennium tapestry. There is a children’s corner to use as well as a chapel for quiet prayer. All in all I would rate this as very good and it is a job to see how this could be improved upon.