St Mary

Constructed largely of random flintwork with some Carrstone the church has a nave, chancel, south porch and a circular tower to the west.

The tower is of preConquest date (1066) with Victorian modifications to the belfry openings and the parapet is thought to be possibly 18th century. The chancel and porch date from the 14th century although the windows are of 15th century date and may have been incorporated later.

Internally the nave roof is modern with a flat ceiling but the carved corbels, which supported wall posts for an arch braced roof, remain. There is evidence of an old rood staircase in line with the chancel arch which is no longer accessible and the chancel arch itself has been decorated with incised leaves but this has subsequently been blocked and a timber 18th century wooden arch with fluted columns incorporated.

This would appear to be contemporary with the three decker pulpit in the southeast corner of the nave, the box pews at the east end of the nave and the benches to the west. There is a very ornate decorative panel above the chancel priest’s door and fine 18th century ledger slabs in the sanctuary. The window arches are also interesting and it is thought that these embellishments (not normally seen in a parish church) may have come from the Abbey next door when that fell into ruin following the dissolution of the monasteries in the time of Henry XIII.

The ancient history of the church and the old Abbey ruins, which stand next to the church, are intriguing. The building is of interest to local historians but it is also important to people locally. It is a landmark, a focal point, a community place, a place of worship and is part of the history of the place we call home.

In rural East Walton, where there are far more sheep than people, it is also a beautiful, spiritual, peaceful and tranquil place to visit.