St James
Shere, Surrey
St James shows many details of its long history including the little south porch of wood and brick sheltering a Norman doorway and 13th century door.
This charming, ancient church, dating from Saxon and Norman times, is a flint-walled gem, set amongst the trees of beautiful Albury Park above the gently running River Tilling. It is full of contrasts and surprises.
Inside, you'll find; a light, limewashed uncluttered interior with a stunning medieval wall painting of St Christopher sporting a curly red beard; interesting monuments, including a brass of John Weston who died in 1440; an odd but delightful 18th century shingled cupola over the tower. Another highlight is the South Chapel. this was remodelled by renowned Victorian architect AW Pugin, responsible for the interior of the Palace of Westminster.
He used his rich and colourful style here to create a dazzling mortuary chapel for Albury Park's Drummond family. This is lavishly decorated, with stained glass, painted walls and ceiling, and a magnificent tiled floor. Visiting in the spring when the blooming snowdrops carpet the churchyard with colour is a treat.