All Saints

In 1086, the Domesday Jurors voted for a church to be built in Hartest and since then All Saints has been at the very heart of our community bearing witness to events in history such as when in 1642 the Rector was ordered to read the King’s proclamation and having done so was promptly arrested by the Parliamentarians and managed to escape!

Following the Restoration a new Rector was appointed but only after he had been charged with 'making rude expressions against the late King'!

The present building consists of a 14th century chancel, south aisle, chapel, and tower. The north aisle was added in the 15th century, and the north porch in the 16th century. Of particular note is the Jacobean pulpit. The north porch facing the village green is particularly beautiful with three niches over the main entrance flanked by two shields bearing the initials of John Philipson who was buried within the porch in 1546. The church was restored in the 17th and 19th Centuries. It is a Grade I listed building.

Today the church is not only used for regular worship, but also as a concert venue encouraging local artistes and choirs. Concerts and recitals take place regularly in the church. The church is also a valuable learning resource for the children of the village school. The church is open every day from morning until dusk and regular services are held on the first and third Sundays of each month.