DevonHALWELLStLeonard(tomgoughCC-BY-SA2.0)1 TomGough

St Leonard

The ancient settlement of Halwell is mentioned in the Domesday Book as Hagewile, a name derived from the ‘Holy Well’ which is still to be found in the churchyard. It is possible the well was in use in Celtic times.

Halwell, Devon

Opening times

Everyday 9am to 4pm.

Address

Halwell
Devon
TQ9 7JA

The parish contains the earthwork enclosures of the two hillforts of Stanborough Camp and Halwell Camp. Stanborough Camp , possibly dating from the Iron Age, was the meeting place for the Stanborough Hundred. Due to its elevated position there were good views of part of the South Devon coast making it a good defensive position and giving early warning of any invasion.

It was important in the 10th. century as one of the burhs of Devon but by the 11th. century it had lost this position to Totnes with the building of Totnes Castle on the orders of the Normans following the conquest of the area.

The parish church is dedicated to St Leonard. The exact date of the church is unknown but parts are possibly from the late 15th century. The tower is of slate. The rest of the church contains a lot of granite. Especially noteworthy is the arcade between the nave and the north aisle of granite piers and semicircular arches .The box pews probably date from the early 19th century.

  • Captivating architecture

  • Enchanting atmosphere

  • Fascinating churchyard

  • Glorious furnishings

  • Magnificent memorials

  • National heritage here

  • Spectacular stained glass

  • Bus stop within 100m

  • Café in church

  • Dog friendly

  • On street parking at church

  • Steps to enter the church or churchyard

  • Walkers & cyclists welcome

  • Monthly Luncheon Club on last Tuesday of every month.

  • Church of England

Contact information

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