Norman church, Tudor Manor, cottages and more flowers

We probably stayed within a 15 mile radius today.

First stop was Bere Regis, my home village, where we visited the church, my parents ashes are interred, and where my sister and I were bell-ringers and in the choir – in our youth!

Manor Farm is what remains of The Manor of Bere Regis – home of the Turbeville family and built on the site of King John’s hunting lodge.

From Great English churches The Church of St.John the Baptist

Despite the usual speculation that there was an even older church here, the earliest fragments of the present structure date from around 1050, late in the Anglo-Saxon period. This was a cross-shaped church. In the c12 a south aisle was added and the font is believed also to date from this period. The church guide suggests the mid c12 but the pointed arches of the aisle are in Transitional style and would support a rather later decade of the century.

 

The roof of the church with amusing depictions of the twelve apostles is quite unique.

The stained glass windows date from the 15th century.

Onward along the narrow country lanes to Affpuddle. Wild hollyhocks we’re blooming under the pines. No need to worry which side of the road to drive on! Until a car approaches!

Athelhampton House. There has been a settlement since ancient times and was once the site of a palace for Saxon King Athelston. The manor is mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086; but this house was founded by Sir William Martyn in 1485. Since 2019 it has been a private home.