kids encyclopedia robot

St Peter's Church, Huish Champflower facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Church of St Peter
Square stone tower with gravestones in the foreground.
General information
Town or city Huish Champflower
Country England
Coordinates 51°03′15″N 3°21′29″W / 51.0543°N 3.3580°W / 51.0543; -3.3580
Completed 15th century

The Church of St Peter is a historic church located in Huish Champflower, a village in Somerset, England. This beautiful building dates back to the 15th century, which means it's over 500 years old! A part of the church, called the north aisle, was added in 1534.

This church is very special. It has been officially recognized by English Heritage as a Grade I listed building. This means it's considered one of the most important historic buildings in England.

A Look at the Church's History

The Church of St Peter was built on the same spot where an even older church once stood. This first church was built in the Norman style, which was popular in England after the Norman Conquest in 1066. However, none of that very old Norman church remains today.

Changes Over Time

The church has been updated and repaired many times over the centuries. For example, the arch in the tower was built in 1703. Later, between 1875 and 1880, the church had a big makeover. This was part of a trend called "Victorian restoration," where old churches were repaired and sometimes changed to fit Victorian tastes. During this time, the arch leading to the chancel (the part of the church where the altar is) was rebuilt.

The church tower has five bells. One of these bells was made way back in 1790 by Thomas Bilbie. He was part of the famous Bilbie family, who were well-known bell makers from Cullompton.

Special Features Inside

Inside the Church of St Peter, you can find some interesting historical items. There is stained glass that some people believe came from a special window called a Jesse window. This glass might have originally been part of Barlynch Priory, an old monastery near Dulverton.

You can also see a lectern from the 15th century. A lectern is a stand that holds the Bible or other books during church services.

The Church Today

The Church of St Peter is still an active place of worship. It is part of a larger group of churches in the area. A church service is held here once a month, continuing a long tradition of community and faith in Huish Champflower.

See also

  • Grade I listed buildings in West Somerset
  • List of Somerset towers
  • List of ecclesiastical parishes in the Diocese of Bath and Wells
kids search engine
St Peter's Church, Huish Champflower Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.