St Michael Cornhill
City of London, Greater London
The church lies over the remains of the Basilica, the northern most part of the great Roman Forum built in the first century AD.
Although the open trussed roofs are of early date the wooden spire clad with shingles is of recent date replacing the original after a fire in 1946.
The interior is simple with mosaic frescoes on the east wall with tombs of the Gainsford family flanking the chancel, one of which is in cast iron probably unique in this country. The font is of Saxon origin apparently and the linen fold panelled pulpit and lectern are reputedly from the Gainsford family house, Crowhurst Place.
The churchyard contains graves, many being well kept, stretching back several centuries, as well as a hollow yew tree, believed to be 4000 year old, and whose immense branches are carefully supported. There is a handsome lychgate dating from the 1930s.
