HampshireEMPSHOTTChurchHolyRood(robinwebsterCC-BY-SA2.0)2 RobinWebster

Holy Rood

Empshott is a beautiful area of English farmland and woodland at the headwaters of the River Rother, the church is 13th century, though there has inevitably been some rebuilding over the centuries, including a charming bell turret.

Empshott, Hampshire

Opening times

Open daily dawn to dusk.

Address

Empshott
Hampshire
GU33 6HT

The church of the Holy Rood, though much rebuilt is of great interest, the oldest part being the chancel, which is Early English.

The nave is later and its arcades, along with the chancel arch and eastern lancet windows have good dog tooth mouldings. It seems that there were formerly north and south chapels to the chancel; the north has entirely disappeared; though the blocked arch leading into it remains.

On the site of the south chapel is a modern vestry; and at the east end of the south aisle are the remains of an arch formerly leading into it. These chapels, together with the aisles, were probably destroyed in 1624, when there was much rebuilding. The original aisle walls were then reerected at a distance of only 2 feet from the nave arcades, some of the old windows being re used.

The shingled bell turret is carried on a truss dated 1624. The remainder of the nave roof and that of the chancel are modern. There is much interesting old woodwork. At the west end is an excellent chancel screen dated 1624, which was removed to its present position in 1868. The font is of Purbeck marble, c1190, with a cover dated 1624. The nave seats are c1400 and the lectern and pulpit are 16th century.

  • Spectacular stained glass

  • Social heritage stories

  • Glorious furnishings

  • Enchanting atmosphere

  • Captivating architecture

  • Walkers & cyclists welcome

  • Space to secure your bike

  • Parking within 250m

  • On street parking at church

  • Level access to the main areas

  • Dog friendly

  • Café within 500m

  • Bus stop within 100m

  • Accessible toilets nearby

  • Church of England

Contact information

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