Church of St Mary the Virgin, Fordwich
Kent
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About this church
900 years of craftsmanship in a lovely shingle church
This historic church stands in an idyllic spot near the River Stour, leaning somewhat, as a result of a fifteenth-century flood. Inside, the church is mellow and unspoilt, with seventeenth-century fittings and wall paintings. It is home to a strange carved stone, dating from around 1100. Nearly 1.7 metres long, the Fordwich Stone is thought to be a shrine made for the body parts - or relics - of a saint, maybe St Augustine of Canterbury.
There are also box pews and a corporation pew, seventeenth-century rails and altarpiece, and the Royal Arms and Commandments, painted on plaster in 1688. Earlier features include the twelfth-century font made of Bethersden marble and lovely fourteenth-century glass.
To donate by text, please text 'FOH' to 70970 to donate £5 and to 70191 to donate £10. Thank you.
Access information
There is a gravel path up to the porch. There are two steps down into church. Uneven but flat floor. The church can be dark at times of low light.
Facilities & hire
Due to the historic nature of our buildings, only a very small number have heating, running water or toilet facilities. The lighting is usually operated via a 'push button' timer or a motion sensor.
- Church available for hire
- Church available for Champing
Directions
Three miles north of Canterbury, off A28. Follow the Historic Church signs on A28 in Sturry along Fordwich Road and King Street. Church behind Fordwich Arms.
Transport
Nearest railway station: Sturry (1.5 miles). Bus route number 302.
History & further information
Why not make your visit more enjoyable and informed by finding out more about this church before you visit? You can download a range of publications below including the relevant county guide, and any walk round guides we have for this church.
This free of charge short guide contains details of all the churches we care for in Kent. Printed copies of the county guide are also available at the church.
