St Sadwrn

There has been a church here since St Sadwrn established his Celtic Llan (Christian community) in the 6th or 7th century, the ‘Hen translating as ‘old’. The llan was visited by St Winifred on her journey from Holywell to Gwytherin, where she was to become abbess and live out her days, and there is evidence that a relic of St Winifred was to be found at Henllan as late as the 17th century, the church being on the pilgrimage route from Holywell to Gwytherin. The present building dates back to the late 13th century and original features are visible in the north doorway (now the entrance to the vestry), a small piscina and the tracery window in the vestry. The current building is Grade II* listed and there are various other listed structures in the grounds including a cross, walls, lychgate and various tombs.

The original medieval font, recently found in a well at Llys Meirchion, can now be seen near the porch where it stands beside the medieval village cross. The latter has previously served as a support for the gallery within the church and a lamp stand in the churchyard. The remarkable Grade II* listed medieval tower is detached from the church and stands on an outcrop of rock above the ancient churchyard. It is said that its corners point north, south, east and west. Tradition holds that the tower was built higher than the church so that the bells could be heard throughout the parish.

In the grounds of the Church Institute is the beautiful Bee Garden, a combination of wildflowers and shrubs, consistent with a managed and natural landscape. The garden is well maintained and developed by volunteers and is much appreciated as a peaceful setting in which to sit and reflect or restore one’s mental wellbeing. On a warm summer’s day, all you can hear is the humming of insects, busy among the herbs and flowers.

Henllan is a wonderfully curious place, made even more interesting by the presence of St Sadwrn’s, its unique bell tower, and the lovely surroundings of the Bee Garden and the far reaching views.