St. Mary the Virgin, Poltimore Devon

St Mary the Virgin Poltimore, a grade I listed building, has been the heart of the village since the thirteenth century, loved by villagers and visitors alike.

The Poltimore Estate Research Society is currently developing a book about the history of the building, the artefacts, its graveyard and the people associated with the church. St Mary's has strong connections with the Bampfylde family of Poltimore House who supported the church and village generally, employing local people over centuries. The research explores some of the lives of donors, the incumbents and generations of families who formed the congregation, and we hope to present some detailed studies during the open days.

Visitors are encouraged to explore for themselves and there will be guided tours of the church to examine its wonderful features including the Rood Screen, angel corbels, bench ends, hatchments, unusual clerestory windows, monuments, the Norman font and features from the 1879 restoration. There is also a small library area. Outside one can visit the ancient cross and the graveyard which adjoins the land once part of the Poltimore House gardens and arboretum. The local bell ringers will perform on the peal of six bells (1723).

Visitors may also enjoy the well established public garden developed by the Gold winners of the Villages in Bloom competition, who this year have been invited to participate in the National event.

Timings

Saturday 12 September:

1000-1600

Saturday 19 September:

1000-1600

Location & directions

St Mary the Virgin, Poltimore Village, Exeter, Devon, EX4 OAT

Directions:

Easy to find from the Exeter to Broadclyst road B3181 half a mile past the famous Poltimore House. The church is in the centre of the village opposite the village hall. There are buses to the end of the road but no public transport to the village.

Contact on day:

Jennie Edwards

Telephone number:

+447789955029

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

The front of the church has a cobbled area and steps but there is wheelchair/buggy access through the side door (bell tower). There is limited parking in the village but ample space at Poltimore House, half a mile away, where there will be refreshments and toilet facilities. There are clear paths through the graveyard.

Additional information

Max number of people:

10

Estimated duration:

1 hour(s)

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