St Mary
Horncastle, Lincolnshire
Built in the 13th century, the oldest part is the low tower which is surmounted by a small spirelet that is completely out of proportion with the rest of the building!
It retains its Norman doorway and the tower boasts some fine gargoyles.
The interior has some interesting stained glass and a memorial to those who lost their lives during the First World War.
Situated in the churchyard is an interesting Freemason’s headstone. In memory of William Drewry who died May 27th 1801, aged 81. The arrow is the arrow of death, the hour glass signifies mortality, the scythe also time and the divine harvest. The eye above surrounded by the sun is classic Masonic symbolism.
A fine Queen Anne house built in the 18th century sits near the church and is a notable building. It was used at one time by the Bishops of Carlisle. One point of real interest is the doorway of the house, it once belonged to Captain Cook. But the question is, how and why did Captain Cook’s doorway get from his home in London to finish up at little West Ashby in the Lincolnshire Wolds?