St Mary the Virgin

Affectionately known as St Mary's, there has been a church on this site since 1155, possibly even earlier, and as such the fabric of the building reflects a long and eventful history. Today St Mary's is an active and lively Christian community offering a warm welcome to visitors.

The church building has undergone many changes throughout the ages. In 1702, a storm damaged the church tower and in 1774, a fire destroyed the roof and most of the furnishings. However, there remains much the visitor to behold and enjoy including the peaceful approach to the church past a meadow. Once inside, there are two aisles either side of the nave lined by nine stone bays. The font dates from the 12th century and there are still some Tudor tiles in the flooring. The Victorian pulpit is of stone and marble and is a memorial to William Auger, a local oyster merchant. There is also a memorial to the family of William Scott, a former curate of the church and Chaplain to Lord Nelson, who died in his arms at the battle of Trafalgar.