Tucked away on opposite sides of the Nadder valley, the Donhead parishes once made up an estate that belonged to Shaftesbury Abbey.
Donhead St Mary, Wiltshire
In the 11th century the land was divided into two parishes, each with its own church. It is thought that St Mary's was the first to be founded. The deep tub font with arch and pillar dates from the 12th century, while much of the present building is of 13th century date, including the lancet windows of the nave clerestory.
Later additions include 15th century work such as the tower.
The roof and other features, including much of the glass, date from a 19th century restoration.
Donhead St Andrew, Dorset
Situated in the valley beside the river Nadder, there has been a church here serving as a centre for Christian worship for at least a thousand years and it is believed that the first church may have been built soon after the founding of Shaftesbury Abbey in about 875.
Berwick St John, Wiltshire
Melbury Abbas, Dorset
A classic mid 19th century Victorian Gothic church with stained glass by Thomas Willement; 'the father of Victorian stained glass'.
