Newtimber Church - A rural church celebrates global stories
St John the Evangelist, Newtimber Church, Church Lane, Newtimber, Hassocks, West Sussex, BN6 9BT
Recent research has revealed the local landowners who lived in Newtimber Place had many and various connections to the expansion of the British Empire linking the church through stained glass windows, memorial stones and brass plaques to its endeavours in India, Jamaica, East and West Africa.
Our Heritage Open Day will honour the other side of this colonial story, and joyfully celebrate the culture, customs and incredible resistance of the unheard voices through story telling, food and music.
Visitors are invited to arrive from 10am to enjoy the peace and tranquility of the churchyard, read about the history of the church, refreshments served
Our programme starts at 12.00
* the memorials around the church tell a fascinating story of local families and the part they played in building the British Empire.
* learn about the extraordinary life of the young Thomas Highflyer, who was rescued from a slave dhow in 1866, and came to live in Brighton
* Stories that Bind Us: our memorials tell a new story
* 12.50 We Know Your Name
1pm " Soul Food Sisters" opens for lunch
Stay all for the afternoon to enjoy the lilting sound of Saidi Kanda, the award winning Tanzanian Multi Instrumentalist.
This event was supported by leading family history website, Findmypast, who provided access to their records as part of their sponsorship of ‘Everyday Histories’, the festival theme. Discover your ancestors' stories at findmypast.co.uk
Timings
- Saturday 12 September:
- 1000-1600
Location & directions
St John the Evangelist, Newtimber Church, Church Lane, Newtimber, Hassocks, West Sussex, BN6 9BT
- Directions:
- Drive north out of Brighton and come off at the HENFIELD A281 junction, just before the Texaco garage. Stay on the A281 for 2 km and the sign for Newtimber Church is just after the hill on your right. Park along Church Lane.
- Contact on day:
- Ngaire Digby
- Telephone number:
- +447595255427
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
The brick path from the road to the church is wide enough for a wheelchair, and while it is a bit bumpy, with care, it is suitable for an electric wheelchair. Plenty of parking along Church Lane & at Newtimber Place. There are two steps into the north transept where the Gordon memorial is, which will restrict some visitors.
Additional information
The church has displays and leaflets giving you a better understanding of the memorials in the building, revealing our colonial heritage. Refreshments available 1000-1600 on 12th Sept We have woodland and exploratory activities for young children available in the entrance. They are available for visitors now and throughout the summer hols. Newtimber church is open all year round and welcomes ramblers, D of E, scouts, school parties, cyclists, Brighton Fringe, recitals & talks.
