St Mary & All Saints
Droxford, Hampshire
The first thing the visitor sees of Droxford's church is the imposing square flint tower and its stair turret, both dating from the 16th century.
Of the many highlights, outstanding are the 17th century wooden altar table, the chancel screen (with a 20th century rood) and tower screen, both of about 1634, a row of wooden medieval seats, and an early 12th century font.
Clamouring for attention, and a real surprise in such a setting, are the Neale monuments on either side of the altar. That on the south side is the most spectacular and has life sized figures of Sir Thomas Neale (died 1621) and his two wives, and smaller figures of nine (of 10) children.
At the east end of the churchyard, accessible by gate, are ruins of a rare 13th century house, built by the St John family. By the 16th century it was reduced to being a barn, and in the 18th century was turned into a scenic ruin.
You can only reach the church by footpath; cars should be parked in Warnford.