DiscoverPlaces to seeUnited KingdomEnglandSouth West EnglandDorsetWest DorsetBatcombe
St Mary Magdalene Church
DiscoverPlaces to seeUnited KingdomEnglandSouth West EnglandDorsetWest DorsetBatcombe
St Mary Magdalene Church
Highlight • Religious Site
St Mary Magdalene Church
Hiking
5.0
(3)
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Tips
MCW73
May 1, 2026
Hiking
If you’re looking for a bit of high-drama West Country folklore, St. Mary’s Church in Batcombe is the place to be. It’s got a gorgeous 15th-century tower, but most people …
MCW73
May 1, 2026
Hiking
The Deal: Mompesson allegedly made a deal with the Devil (as one did in the 17th century when the Wi-Fi was down).
The Fine Print: The Devil claimed Mompesson’s soul the moment his body was buried "either inside or outside" the church.
The Loophole: Mompesson, proving that lawyers are the same in every century, gave strict instructions for his burial. He was to be placed directly inside the church wall. > "Neither in nor out, neither high nor low. Checkmate, Satan." — Mompesson, probably.
The Fine Print: The Devil claimed Mompesson’s soul the moment his body was buried "either inside or outside" the church.
The Loophole: Mompesson, proving that lawyers are the same in every century, gave strict instructions for his burial. He was to be placed directly inside the church wall. > "Neither in nor out, neither high nor low. Checkmate, Satan." — Mompesson, probably.
MCW73
May 1, 2026
Hiking
The "Mompesson’s Leap" Incident
As if the burial wasn't weird enough, there’s the story of his horse.
Mompesson was reportedly such a wild rider that he once tried to jump …
As if the burial wasn't weird enough, there’s the story of his horse.
Mompesson was reportedly such a wild rider that he once tried to jump …
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Elevation 160 m
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Tuesday 10 November
8°C
6°C
84 %
Additional weather tips
There’s a fairly high chance of rain. Consider packing a waterproof jacket.