St Nicholas
South Boarhunt, Hampshire
This Saxon church has changed very little since it was built sometime before 1066.
The church is a striking example of a building on a large, almost circular, mound, which had probably been sacred ground for centuries before its construction. St Wilfrid may have dedicated a church there before 670 AD Norman builders arrived in 1120, evidence being found in the zigzag pattern on the west doorway's arch.
Much of the building is in Early English style with some 13th century features from the church's long association with the Uvedale family, Lords of the Manor of Wickham. The exterior walls are of Hampshire flint, the present tower and spire and most of the stained glass date from the Victorian era. The six bells, still in regular use, date from 1767, last being restored and rehung in 1973.
The interior of the church is decorated in a cream colour, which with the aisleless nave creates a feeling of warmth and intimacy. The south transept, dating from the 17th century, contains the notable marble and alabaster tomb of 1615 in memory of Sir William Uvedale. Also in that transept are a chest and display relating to William of Wykeham, born in the village, Bishop of Winchester from 1368 to 1404 and also founder of Winchester College, as well as New College and New College School in Oxford.
In the Lady Chapel, which is encased by glass engraved by the renowned artist Tracey Sheppard, can be found a fine wall monument dating from 1569 in memory of Sir William Uvedale, and a stone coffin lid, probably 13th century, from the grave of a child. Hanging in the nave are a painting of the Holy Family by Guernico from the 17th century Italian School and 'A Rest during Flight into Egypt' after Luca Giordano (1632-1705).
The church is surrounded by two acres of well tended churchyard, containing headstones dating back several centuries and a number of table tombs, some of which are Listed structures. Of note are the graves of Vice Admiral Grindall, one of Nelson's senior officers at Trafalgar, and Captain Moss, who served under Nelson at the Battle of Copenhagen. There are also several Commonwealth War Graves.