Holy Innocents' Church, Adisham
This Grade 1 listed church was founded c. 624. The present building  - flint with stone dressings  - dates from 1150 to 1350 - and the painted medieval wooden reredos was salvaged from Canterbury Cathedral by Archdeacon  Battley, Rector 1684-1700.
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Holy Innocents' is a community church. The nave was reordered in 2014 to create an open space for concerts, art exhibitions, village celebrations and private receptions. The 14th-century timber roof is well displayed by modern lighting. The stone benches around the nave walls are a reminder of an era before pews were introduced. The church is part of the Barham Downs Benefice and conducts regular Sunday services. The chancel retains ancient pews and 13th-century tiles along with Victorian renovations by William White from 1869-70. The Hedgeland organ dates from 1872 and needs renovation. The stained glass windows are Victorian, apart from a few preserved fragments of medieval glass.

The present building dates from 1150 to 1350 - of local flints with stone dressings and has evolved from its foundation c.624 when the manor of Adisham was given by King Eadbald of Kent to Christchurch Cathedral. The Norman font is of Purbeck marble. It was authenticated by the Courtauld Institute in 1993. In the reign of Mary 1 the Rector, John Bland, was imprisoned in Canterbury Castle and burned at the stake in 1555 on a charge of heresy. His name is on the Martyrs' Memorial in Wincheap. The church is Grade 1 listed.

Timings & Tours

Saturday 14 September:

10:00 - 17:00

Location & directions

Holy Innocents' Church, Pond Hill, Adisham, Kent, CT3 3LH

Directions:

The Church is at the top of Pond Hill. The Village Green is at the bottom.

Contact on day:

Sarah Taylor, Chair

Telephone number:

+441304840293

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

Please phone 01304 840293 so wheelchair access/parking permission can be organised from Adisham Court Farm next to the Church.

Additional information

The Heritage Open Days event will coincide with the East Kent Churches Ride and Stride Event.

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