The Church, Whitcombe, Dorset
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Photo: The CCT -
Photo: The CCT -
Photo: Andy Marshall -
Photo: Andy Marshall
- Overview
- Map
- What's nearby
A saint, a mermaid and a lost dedication
This lovely medieval church looks like a vision from a Thomas Hardy novel. One of Hardy's friends - the poet and scholar William Barnes - preached his first and last sermons here, and the church's setting evokes the rustic atmosphere of old Dorset life. Yet in Barnes' time the parishioners knew nothing of Whitcombe's great treasure - the magical medieval wallpaintings that include an image of St Christopher and a mermaid combing her hair. But the church still holds on to its final secret - its name: the church dedication is lost in time.
For further information about this church please contact the Local Community Officer on [email protected]
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Access information
This 12th century church is on single level with stone exterior in churchyard surrounded by fields. At present access for users with limited mobility is difficult due to the stile at the entrance to the footpath.
The level nave is wooden parquet (Victorian) with one step up to the chancel (flagstone floor). There is a single entrance through the south porch with level but slightly uneven access. The door width is 97 cms. Total area of nave and chancel is 77 sq metres.
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Facilities & Hire
The Church, Whitcombe is available to hire for events and is a unique and beautiful venue. It is also available for wedding blessings and funeral services.
However, please not that due to its historic nature the church has no running water, toilet facilities or electricity so thought needs to be given for events longer than a couple of hours. To get to this church you need to climb over a stile and cross a field. There is no allocated parking.
Maximum capacity is 60 including any performers and staff or volunteers.
If you would like to hire this church please contact [email protected]
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Directions
2 miles south east of Dorchester, on A352; clearly visible from the main road adjacent to the walled Medieval village of Whitcombe
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Transport
Nearest railway station: Dorchester West (2.1 miles). Bus route number 101
- History & Further Information
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Community information
Click here to download a copy of the Church Plan which sets out the shared vision for the future of the church. This is a working document that will be updated on a regular basis. If you have any feedback or if you want to contact us about the church plan please drop us a line. When you write, please do give the name of the church, thank you!
Useful local links
Whitcombe Church Guidebook