St Bridget
Bridgerule, Devon
Grade I listed 15th century church with features from the original Norman church.
St Swithun's is a Grade II* listed beautiful church dating back to the 13th century; the first named rector was installed in 1262; the list of rectors is interesting in itself. A major restoration of the church was carried out in the late 19th century and this is largely what visitors can see nowadays.
The oldest parts are to the south side and the porch. The church is light and bright, due in part to the large clear window behind the altar. There are clerestory windows, rare in this area, on the upper walls on both north and south sides. There are some beautiful stained glass windows. The tower is a later addition, probably 14th century, with plain finials at the top. On the ground floor are 6 bells, well maintained and regularly rung.
The open church yard has a path running from north to south, well used by locals and visitors. A map and book of names of those buried in the churchyard is kept in church, useful for anyone seeking relatives. The churchyard, well maintained, is home to many species of birds and small animals, including slow worms.