The grey tower of this little gem of Lincolnshire’s farthest east village catches our eye at almost every turn. For seven centuries it has stood in the centre of affairs and men, through the respective periods of dress, customs, manners, fortune and misfortune.
What other landmark can boast of a more romantic history, or longer? Indeed, when all else has vanished the parish church remains.
It is entered by a fine porch “dotted with flowers and heads”. The beautiful 13th century massive pillars give to it a solidarity and a dignified grandeur. The nave archades with varied capitals are worthy of note as are the aisle windows with flowering tracery, and the present clerestory, which is 14th century.
Of unique interest is the 600 year old font, the bowl enriched with sunken circles of tracery and flowers, and underneath, heads both human and grotesque.
Set in the floor are fragments of medieval gravestones, and others of the 13th, 15th and 16th centuries which have remained whole. A rare memorial in the floor of the north aisle is the brass portrait of William Palmer, a cripple who died in 1520. At his side is shown his crutches, “ye stylt” as the inscription calls it.
Fourteen thousand visitors each year pass through this Silent Witness to those things which never pass away. Amid the anxiety and uncertainty this Ancient House of God gives us a sense of permanence.
Let its ancient walls and atmosphere speak to you.