St Mary's Church, Sutton Valence, Kent

St Mary's Church, Sutton Valence Church

Image Source: John Vigar

Stunningly situated on the Greensand Way, yet not altogether enjoying the views, this church is more interesting than beautiful. Incorporating part of a late fifteenth century structure (chancel piers and transept arches) this is predominantly an 1820s church built wide and tall to fit in galleries which were the norm. A blocked door from the tower stairs would have led into the southernmost gallery. Then the in the nineteenth century Mr Habershon, architect to the establishment, Gothicised the church by removing the galleries and fitting arcades to form aisles. He also added tracery to the windows and tried to create a medieval space. It is not unsuccessful. The only weak part is the chancel which ahs a canted apse which speaks of its pre-Ecclesiological origins. The font survives from the medieval church as does a fine thirteenth century coffin lid in the north aisle. Recent redecoration of red carpet and red ceiling has successfully linked the two elements and created a most welcoming and cared for building.

1851 Census Details

Seating Capacity: 500

Morning Attendance: 183

Afternoon Attendance: 227

Evening Attendance: No service

Architecture Details

Original Build Date/Architect: 1823 Ashenden

Restoration: G M Hills 1874

Second Restoration:

Notes

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