Somerset ~ The Churches Conservation Trust
Take a closer look
St Thomas's Church, Thurlbear, Somerset
This beautiful church is located in a small, isolated village just 4 miles from Taunton at the base of the Blackdown Hills which is an area of Special Scenic Interest. Thurlbear derives its name as the "hill in the hollow."
When the Domesday Book was completed in 1086, the de Montacute family held the manor of Thurlbear and appear to have owned lands for most of the middle ages. In 1270 some time after the church was built, Simon de Montacute gave them the right to choose the rector.
Move onwards many hundreds of years and we were lucky enough to meet, by chance, the daughter of a recent rector who was active in the community whilst bringing up his family in the 1950's.
Above right - Mary Buckle, the daughter of the late Robert Jones who was a recent priest at this church, shows Sheila Lane the Researcher of this piece, aspects of the building.
There are a feast of arches to enjoy and these jolly musicians.
and .... going backwards, here is the view towards the altar
Below - The view from the pulpit
Below Opening the old front door.
Looking in
Looking out
The Priest's Lookout window and a glimpse of the fine church interior.
Interested in visiting churches in your area?
Why not explore the Churches Conservation Trust website and see what delights are available, or perhaps you will be tempted to visit Somerset and seek out this and other gems on this website.
You will not be disappointed.
https://www.visitchurches.org.uk/
Thanks for visiting my site. If you have any observations I would be pleased to hear from you via the Contact page.
Ken
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