St Mary’s Church Goudhurst
'Let it be known to all men... that I, Robert de Crevecoeur, for the salvation of
my soul have bequeathed to the Canons of Leeds; those who serve God today and those
who shall serve him through all time, the church of Goudhurst. By this charter I
confirm this.' -
The church you see today dates back to the 13th century and you can appreciate a
spacious, light building constructed from Wealden sandstone and limestone from Normandy.
Amongst other things you will find:
- the 13th century nave and chancel
- pillars built in the 13th,14th and 15th centuries
- indications of 13th century lancet windows in the sanctuary walls
- the 14th century south doorway with a holy water stoup outside
- screens to the choir vestry and Bedgebury chapel made partly from the remains of a 16th century rood screen and loft formerly at the east end of the building
- the west tower, rebuilt after being struck by lightning in 1637 – before being virtually destroyed in the subsequent fire the tower had been higher and with a spire above it
- signs of an 18th century gallery at the west end of the church, built for the use of singers and other musicians
