St Mary

Architectural evidence dates the core of the building to around 1200, characterised by the chamfered semi-circular chancel arch and the little window in the south wall of the chancel. The tower and north aisle were added centuries later. Restoration work in 2007 and 2008 revealed two 18th century wall paintings including scriptures from the Gospel of St John and Ezekiel above the porch door. There are also traces of similar paintings above the chancel arch.

One of the most striking features of the interior is an early 16th century tower screen (now the door to the bell tower). This once formed part of the chancel screen of the medieval church of St Mary Major in Exeter. The screen is richly crested with a cornice of angels and foliage thought to be from an earlier date, possibly 15th century. The Scudamore organ (1859) is an early work of 'Father' Henry Willis, who built organs for several prestigious buildings, including the Royal Albert Hall.

In 1898 heating was installed for the first time, funded largely by a member of the Copleston family. This involved cutting into the Copleston vaults beneath the church and the grill above the fire hole is still visible at the south porch entrance, as is the outline of the stove chimney on the exterior north wall.

In 2008 the Yew tree in the churchyard was designated as a 'Great tree of Devon'.

Inside St Mary's you can find historical literature that provides the visitor with a comprehensive overview of the church's history, the Copleston dynasty and wealthy benefactors who now lie in the churchyard, such as the Collins family, the Raddons and Emmanuel Dommett. This includes: 'Debrett History of Offwell Church & Parish', 'The Life & Times of Bishop Edward Copleston', 'St Mary's Through the Ages' and 'St Mary's Churchyard, Offwell'.