St Martin's extends a warm welcome to all.

St Martin of Tours Church is set above the village on a slight hill with highly regarded pastoral views over the western end of the Bride Valley.  Many who visit find it a tranquil spot. The church is floodlit throughout the year by the generosity of sponsors from far and near.

St Martin’s serves the village community and is fully integrated with the Bride Valley and Chesil Benefice. We are an inclusive and welcoming church offering a range of worship styles, with our two regular services a month of Breakfast Church and another of Holy Communion.  We also celebrate the seasonal festivals and hold other services, such as a Pets service.  When the opportunity arises, we present live music events along with social events.

We have an ancient tower of 6 bells, which are rung regularly for services by a newly formed and enthusiastic band of ringers.  There is an organ and sound system.  

St Martin’s has a connection to Thomas Hardy in so much as the church was rebuilt in 1862 by John Hicks for whom the famous Thomas Hardy worked.

Safeguarding

The parish of Shipton Gorge: St Martin is committed to the safeguarding of children, young people and adults. We follow the House of Bishops guidance and policies and have our own Parish Safeguarding Officer(s), PSOs. The Diocese of Salisbury’s safeguarding pages contain vital links and information including contacts for the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor (DSA) who advise our PSOs. If you are concerned that a child or adult has been harmed or may be at risk of harm please contact the DSA. If you have immediate concerns about the safety of someone, please contact the police and your local authority Children or Adults Services.

Our Benefice Safeguarding Officer is Les Keatley. Phone: 07833545450 Email: [email protected]