DorsetSTONSFORDStMichael(rayjenningsCC-BY-SA2.0)1 RayJennings

St Michael

Thriving church in Thomas Hardy's home, with popular services and a friendly, inclusive and welcoming gathered congregation.

Stinsford, Dorset

Opening times

Open 9am to 4pm daily.

Address

Church Lane
Stinsford
Dorset
DT2 8XW

Stinsford's literary heritage is cherished.

Thomas Hardy's body is buried in Westminster Abbey, but his heart is buried here in a grave beside his two wives. The Hardy grave is easy to spot; it stands to the left of the churchyard as you come through the churchyard gates. Nearby are the graves of other members of the Hardy family. Also nearby is the grave of the former Poet Laureate Cecil Day-Lewis, who admired Hardy so much that he chose to be buried near him.

The building is primarily 13th century, with the addition of a 14th century tower. The north arcade was inserted in 1630. The nave roof was restored in the Victorian period but retains several 16th century timbers, and the chancel roof is 17th century.

Our worship is traditional, musical and adorned with wonderful flowers. The welcome is warm, inclusive and often delicious!

  • Captivating architecture

  • Enchanting atmosphere

  • Fascinating churchyard

  • Magnificent memorials

  • National heritage here

  • Spectacular stained glass

  • Wildlife haven

  • Car park at church

  • Church shop or souvenirs

  • Dog friendly

  • Level access to the main areas

  • Non-accessible toilets in church

  • Parking within 250m

  • Walkers & cyclists welcome

  • Church of England

Contact information

Other nearby churches

Dorchester United Church

Dorchester, Dorset

The United Church was formed in 1978 as a partnership between the Methodist and United Reformed churches in the town.

St Mary the Virgin

Charminster, Dorset

A Saxon church minster was on or near where the church is today first in the 8th century giving 1,200 years of Christian church in this place.