Heritage

St Mary the Virgin is the parish church of Croscombe, Somerset. The building dates primarily from the 15th and 16th centuries but there are vestiges of much earlier work, thought to be Norman. It has been designated a Grade 1 listed building and has many interesting and important features which make up its powerful heritage. Of particular note is the extensive Jacobean woodwork. Simon Jenkins writes in ‘England’s Thousand Best Churches’ “ The church is the frame inside which are some of the richest Jacobean furnishings in England …” The rood screen which bears the arms of James I is truly magnificent. Few parish churches in England can boast a finer pulpit. In the South West corner is the XVth century heavily barred two storey chamber which was once used as the parish armoury and later as the parish lock-up. In the upper chamber the seven medieval guilds held their meetings – the Young Men; the Maidens; the Webbers (weavers); the Fullers; the Hogglers (labourers); the Archers and the Wives. The church is unusual in Somerset in having a spire which is considered to be one of the six finest in the county. In 1936 it was struck by lightning and had to be taken down and completely rebuilt. The tower and belfry, also damaged, were repaired with material from the nearby village quarry, specially reopened to provide stone to match the original. There are many other intriguing and beautiful features in St Mary’s which warrant a visit. As well as the entry in Simon Jenkins' book (with a full page colour plate) it has been featured in Country Life’s Parish Church Treasures series. Information Boards and a small booklet are available in the church with more details of the treasures to be enjoyed. The church is also included in the Discover Somerset Churches Trail – South Mendip and South East Somerset.