Find a church

St Mary's is best know for its Copleston rectors, an ancient, formidable and prosperous clerical dynasty who served continuously as rectors of the parish from 1772 to 1954.

A small rural church serving the communities of Widworthy and Wilmington set in glorious countryside.

An uneasy truce between priory and parish characterised the early history of this church: the townsfolk used the west end, while the monks worshipped at a separate high altar at the east end.

Dates back to medieval times and stands on high ground beside Nynehead Court (once the family seat of the de Wyke and then Sanford families), from the church tower there are panoramic views of the Blackdown Hills to the south and the Brendan and Quantock hills to the north.

Its tall, sturdy looking 14th century tower is one of the oldest features of this church, which incorporates a mix of differing styles.

The church dates from around 1450 and is built of red sandstone, with a tall, typically Somerset tower and contains a fabulous rood turret housing the spiral stair leading to the top of the rood screen.

A place of peace and tranquility.