St Thomas the Apostle
Lymington , Hampshire
The parish church occupies a prominent position at the top of the High Street, its unusual exterior being dominated by the 17th century tower surmounted by an impressive Georgian cupola.
All Saints’ is the heart of the village with its diminutive spire visible from the village green and the sound of the bells drifting across the village inviting everyone to join in celebrations. The church dates from 1070-1086 and is listed in the Domesday Book. The church illustrates the history of the parish of Milford, its evolution and growth through the evolution of its footprint and its memorials and stained glass commemorating significant families of national as well as local importance.
It is a rare example of a Norman church founded by a Saxon - Aelfric, a thane whose lands were taken for the New Forest and who was granted Milford in compensation. It has been a place of continuous worship for over 900 years and has a special, peaceful, atmosphere.
The church has many interesting architectural features including: unusual Norman pillars and doorways, 12th century north and south chapels with Early English arcading and octagonal pillars, an Early English tower housing a notable peal of 8 bells (first recorded in 1533) and a rare 14th century piscina set into a windowsill. The south porch doorway dates from the same period. Lift your eyes to see fifty-four 17th century painted oak roof bosses of grotesque figures above the nave. Memorials and stained glass windows commemorate local families with two 1874 Clayton & Bell windows in the tower.
The church and churchyard have many naval connections linked to Nelson’s navy and beyond. The churchyard contains many interesting memorials and is managed to encourage wildlife, it is a lovely place for a quiet wander and rest.
We have a lively church community with services every Sunday. We usually have a more traditional service at 9am and a more contemporary service at 10.30am but please check our website for the latest information.