St Mary the Virgin, Little Hormead

A small, rural and homely piece of living history, with an 11th century nave and a 13th century chancel, divided by a grand Norman chancel arch. One of the two Norman doorways has its original door (now preserved inside). This is a rare and precious survival, with wonderful craftsmanship in wood and ironwork. Amongst the wealth of interest here is an exquisitely carved 14th century font and an unusual set of Charles II Royal Arms, of 1660. Ancient timbers survive in the roofs and support a later bellturret, containing two bells which may well have rung out over this beautiful area of agricultural north-east Hertfordshire for 600 years.

Please note that due to the continuing conservation of the 12th-century north door (which is currently residing in the nave), visitors to St Mary’s will only be able to access the church by getting the key from the farmhouse directly opposite the entrance to the churchyard. The church will otherwise be kept locked until February 2010.