St Mary’s church is, as its appearance suggests, Norman (12th century) in origin and is a building of significant historical interest. There has been a church on the site for over 1000 years, the present church being built on the site of a former Saxon minster.

Much of the present building dates from a major rebuilding in the 19th century.

There are many interesting features including its unusual weather vane which is affectionately known locally as The Bedbug. Legend has it that its design was determined by King John, who on one occasion being prevented from reaching his hunting lodge on Cottington Hill by fog had to spend a night in the local inn where his night was badly disturbed by bedbugs!

The church is open every day for visitors, for those wanting a quiet place to sit and think and for those wishing to pray.

Cit. explorechurches.org/church/st-mary-kingsclere

Alan

July 13, 2020

The striking tower with its attendant circular stairway sits above the crossing, a large space that dominates the interior of the church.

Great Norman arches have been subject to the hands of Victorian restorations but there is no doubting that this church has its origins in the Norman period 1130 – 1140.

hampshire-history.com/st-marys-church-kingsclere

In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!

Details

Informations

Elevation 110 m

Weather

Today

Saturday 25 October

11°C

4°C

0 %

If you start your activity now...

Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h

Most visited during

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

See rides here

Take Me There

Location: Kingsclere, Basingstoke And Deane, Hampshire, South East England, England, United Kingdom

Other Popular Places to Check Out

Yellow Route, Greenham and Crookham Commons

Leafy Track in North Wessex Downs

Hannington Village

Newbury Lock

Lane Lined With Red Horse Chestnut Trees

View of Watership Down

Hannington Village Green

Forest Trail in North Wessex Downs

Watership Down

St. Mary's Church, Kingsclere

Descent Trail in North Wessex Downs

Bridleways and Paths in North Wessex Downs

St Mary's Church, Kingsclere

1. Grazeley Road from Beech Hill – The Vyne loop from Reading Green Park

2. Christ Church, Ramsdell – St Mary's Church, Kingsclere loop from Basingstoke

3. View from Combe Gibbet – Hannington Viaduct loop from Basingstoke

Other Popular Places to Check Out

We value your privacy ⛰️

We value your privacy ⛰️