St Mary the Virgin

He also built, or rather rebuilt, the church. Both are in red brick and date from the early 16th century.

The Marneys had lived here since the 12th century, but it was only in the time of Henry VII and Henry VIII that the family, in the person of Sir Henry, came to be nationally important. The tower and church reflect that status and wealth.

The church is built with patterning (called diapering) in blue brick. This is especially noticeable in the tower, which also has stone dressed buttresses, and the overall effect is very harmonious. The plan of the church is unusual in that it has two south porches; one giving entrance to the chancel.

Inside the church is beautifully kept, light and airy.

There are two screens, wall monuments, and even an old plough to draw the eye, but it is the memorials to three Marneys that stand out. First is Sir William, whose early 15th century alabaster effigy was in the earlier church on this site. Then comes Sir Henry himself, in black marble, under an ornate terracotta canopy. Last is his son, John, 2nd and last Lord Marney, who died in 1525. Each figure has a lion at its feet.