St Michael the Archangel

The oldest part of the building dates from the 13th century, and the striking 38 metre high tower is 15th century, with tall pinnacles that can be seen for miles around this pretty town.

The north (Still) chapel was built around 1325 and the south (St Matthew's) chapel added around 1350 by Sir John Bettesthorne, also known as John of Mere. Bettesthorne gave money for mass to be said daily for Queen Margaret, second wife of Edward I, and for himself and his wife. Bettesthorne's wonderful memorial brass is set into the floor of the chapel he built. The brass dates from 1398 and has an unusually complete inscription with a code letter that enables us to determine that Sir John died on a Thursday

The porch has a ribbed stone vault with abstract carved bosses, spot lit at night. In a niche outside is a rare 12th century statue of St Michael king and dragon.

St Michael’s has excellent stained glass. In the St Matthew’s Chapel are four 14th century lights showing St Christopher, St Nicholas, St Martin and a pope. Situated high in the nave are several carved wooden angels.

The churchyard includes an avenue of ‘twelve apostles’.