St Bartholomew's Church, Richard's Castle, Herefordshire
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St Bartholemews in Richards Castle -
Photo: Andy Marshall -
Photo: Andy Marshall -
Photo: Andy Marshall
- Overview
- Map
- What's nearby
A Medieval church and Knights Templar chapel
This twelfth-century church, perched high above the village, is next to one of the earliest Marcher'; castles built by Norman overlords to defend the Anglo-Welsh border.
The detached bell tower, dating from around 1400, was probably part of the castle's defences. Inside, the church has hardly been touched since Georgian times. It is the muted and faded colours as well as the architectural vistas that make this building so beautiful and quietly atmospheric.
There are marvellous furnishings including Georgian box pews, a gallery and a seventeenth-century canopied pew for the Salweys, Lords of the Manor, and still used by them at the two or three services held each year.
Visit on a clear day and enjoy amazing views from the porch all the way to the Black Mountains and the Malvern Hills.
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Access information
There is a steep grass path to the church which is unsuitable for wheelchair users.
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Facilities & Hire
Due to the historic nature of our buildings, only a very small number have heating, running water or toilet facilities. The lighting is usually operated via a 'push button' timer or a motion sensor.
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Directions
5 miles south west of Ludlow; Richards Castle is signed off A49 Ludlow to Leominster road via B4361; in Richards Castle follow brown 'historic church' tourism sign alongside the Castle Inn via country lane for 2 miles until finger post sign at top of hill
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Transport
Nearest railway station: Ludlow (4 miles).
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History & Further Information
Why not make your visit more enjoyable and informed by finding out more about this church before you visit? You can download a range of publications below including the relevant county guide, and any walk round guides we have for this church.
Herefordshire & Worcestershire County Guide
This free of charge short guide contains details of all the churches we care for in Herefordshire & Worcestershire.
St. Bartholemew's, Richard's Castle guidebook
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Community information
Click here to download a copy of the CP which sets out the shared vision for the future of the church. This is a working document that will be updated on a regular basis. If you have any feedback or if you want to contact us about the church plan please drop us a line. When you write, please do give the name of the church, thank you!
Latest church plan:
Richard_s Castle Church Plan - November 2023.pdf 1
St Bartholemews Church, Richard's Castle, is in our West region.
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