7. Holt, St. Martin of Tours

This is fine small Norman church built in local red sandstone adjacent to Holt Castle. The tower was developed in three stages and has evidence of Saxon workmanship. The arch between the tower and the nave dates from 1100 and is an example of Norman building at its best. The magnificent font dates from about 1120 and features monster heads linked by their tongues. The chancel arch also dates from the early 12th century. The chancel may have been an apse or round ended. About the year 1400 it was extended in square form eastwards. The Lady Chapel was created in 1360 and contains two windows of special merit. One dates from 1450 and is dedicated to Margaret Beauchamp, Lady Scull. The stained glass window behind the main altar is the work of Herbert Bryans, a Victorian contemporary of Charles Kempe. The north and south doorways have been constructed in characteristic Norman fashion and bear rich chevron mouldings.

Open on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays.
Parking and WC