St Mary's Old Church, West Bergholt
Essex
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About this Church
A harmonious jumble of centuries past
St Mary's is believed to have Saxon origins - though much of the church is from the fourteenth century. Reused Roman bricks pepper the walls and buttresses, and the north wall is 1,000 years old.
Remote from its village, the old church makes an attractive ensemble with the Georgian Hall and the pond across the lane.
There are two intriguing Royal Arms - one a rare survivor from the reign of James I; the other in cast iron, made by a Colchester foundry in 1816.
The atmosphere of St Mary's is wonderfully, curiously still, with nothing but birdsong to break the peace.
To donate by text, please text 'WBE' to 70970 to donate £5 and to 70191 to donate £10. Thank you.
Access Information
There are two steps into the church but a ramp is available.
Facilities & Hire
Due to the historic nature of our buildings only a small number have heating, running water and toilet facilities. The lighting is usually operated via a 'push button' timer or a motion sensor.
- Church Available for Hire
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.
Historic churches in Bedfordshire Essex Greater London Hertfordshire Guide
St Marys Old Church West Bergholt Guidebook
This free of charge short guide contains details of all the churches we care for in Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Essex & London. Printed copies of the county guide are also available at the church.
Directions
West Bergholt is three miles north-west of Colchester off the B1508. At the junction of B1508 and Hall Road to the north of the village, follow the historic church sign and then the No Through Road to the church.
Transport
Nearest railway station: Colchester (3 miles).
Closest bus route number 753
Community Information
Useful local links:
- Visit Essex tourism website: www.visitessex.com
- Essex Society for Family History: www.esfh.org.uk
- Essex Society for Archaeology & History: www.essex.ac.uk
- Essex churches website: www.essexchurches.info
- Friends of Essex Churches Trust: www.foect.org.uk
The Friends of St. Mary's Old Church can be contacted on www.westbergholt.net/clubs/st-marys or contact the Chairman, Martin Long on 01206 240443. Volunteers are always welcome.
