Church of St Mary the Virgin, Fordwich

2013-06-26

900 years of craftsmanship in a lovely shingle church

This historic church stands in an idyllic spot near the River Stour, leaning somewhat, as a result of a 15th-century flood.

Inside, the church is mellow and unspoilt, with 17th-century fittings and wall paintings. It is home to a strange carved stone, dating from around 1100. Nearly 1.7 metres long, the Fordwich Stone is thought to be a shrine made for the body parts – or relics – of a saint, maybe St Augustine of Canterbury.

There are also box pews and a corporation pew, 17th-century rails and altarpiece, and the Royal Arms and Commandments, painted on plaster in 1688.

Earlier features include the 12th-century font made of Bethersden marble and lovely 14th century glass.