Exterior and grounds, St Mary's Church, Lenham

3D Model

A Grade I listed medieval parish church dating from the 12th century. The sturdy 15th-century west tower, built of Kentish ragstone, houses a historic ring of bells and dominates the village skyline. The nave forms the main body of the church reflects centuries of architectural development, from Norman foundations to later Gothic enlargements. The eastern end of the church forms the chancel, where the high altar stands, was traditionally reserved for clergy and features fine Early English detailing. The north porch forms the church’s principal entrance, added in the 14th century. Amongst the gravestones in the churchyard, several table tombs from the 18th and early 19th centuries commemorate prominent local families and landowners. A traditional churchyard yew, symbolising eternal life and likely centuries old, marks the heart of the burial ground. The timber lychgate, a later addition, once sheltered coffins before funerals entered the church.