St Mary de Haura Church
A 900+ year old church with stunning Norman architecture and ornate stained glass, set in a peaceful historic churchyard.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter exploration
St Mary de Haura Church
Best Time
Quieter exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 900+ year old church with stunning Norman architecture and ornate stained glass, set in a peaceful historic churchyard.
"Beautiful 900+ year old building with the remains of walls showing where a ruined section once stood."
Allow ample time
The church is smaller than expected; give yourself time to explore the grounds and appreciate details. :clock1:
Respect the quiet
It's a serenely quiet place. Enjoy the peace and historical atmosphere. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Norman Architecture
Exterior and interior walls
Discover ancient Norman architecture embedded in the walls, showcasing centuries of history and structural evolution.
Ornate Stained Glass
Interior windows
Marvel at the stunningly ornate stained glass windows, a testament to the church's artistic heritage and enduring beauty.
Historic Churchyard
Surrounding grounds
Explore the well-kept churchyard, featuring varied trees and remnants of ruined sections, offering a tranquil space for reflection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Exploring the Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allow ample time
The church is smaller than expected; give yourself time to explore the grounds and appreciate details. :clock1:
Respect the quiet
It's a serenely quiet place. Enjoy the peace and historical atmosphere. :pray:
Explore the churchyard
Don't miss the surrounding trees and historical remnants outside. :deciduous_tree:
Appreciate the details
Notice the ornate interior and exterior, especially the Norman architecture. :magnifyingglasstilted_right:
Tips
from all over the internet
Allow ample time
The church is smaller than expected; give yourself time to explore the grounds and appreciate details. :clock1:
Respect the quiet
It's a serenely quiet place. Enjoy the peace and historical atmosphere. :pray:
Explore the churchyard
Don't miss the surrounding trees and historical remnants outside. :deciduous_tree:
Appreciate the details
Notice the ornate interior and exterior, especially the Norman architecture. :magnifyingglasstilted_right:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
St Mary de Haura Church is praised for its rich history, dating back to the 12th century, and its beautiful Norman architecture. Visitors appreciate the ornate interior, especially the stained glass windows, and the serene atmosphere of the well-kept churchyard. While some find the interior smaller than anticipated, the historical significance and peaceful ambiance make it a highly recommended visit.
"Beautiful 900+ year old building with the remains of walls showing where a ruined section once stood. Stunningly ornate inside as out and surrounded by many varied lovely trees. I need to go back for further exploration!"
Julia Hartley
"Always a nice place to visit,smaller on the inside than one might suspect. Well kept,always clean and serenely quiet"
Cristian B
"Origins date back to the early 12th century.
Full of history. Very popular. Easy access."
roland j. ruttledge
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St Mary de Haura Church is located in Shoreham-by-Sea. Access is generally easy, with many visitors finding it straightforward to reach by car or public transport. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Parking availability can vary. It's advisable to check local parking regulations and options in Shoreham-by-Sea before your visit to ensure a smooth arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
St Mary de Haura Church is a historic site, and typically entry is free. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific event or service times that might affect visitor access.
Opening hours can vary, especially depending on services or events. It's recommended to check with local sources or the church directly for the most accurate visiting times.
While the church is historic, efforts are often made to improve accessibility. Inquire directly with the church for specific details regarding ramps or accessible facilities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The origins of St Mary de Haura Church date back to the early 12th century, making it a site rich in history. It features significant Norman architecture embedded within its walls, reflecting centuries of development and change.
The church is renowned for its Norman architecture, with visible remnants of its early structure. Visitors often admire the ornate interior and exterior, including beautiful stained glass windows.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always respectful to be mindful of ongoing services or other visitors. Check for any specific signage regarding photography rules.
Beyond the church itself, the surrounding churchyard is a lovely area to explore, featuring varied trees and historical remnants of the building's past, offering a peaceful atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Shoreham-by-Sea offers various dining options. You can find local cafes and restaurants nearby to enjoy a meal after your visit to the church.
📸 📸 Photography
The ornate stained glass windows are a highlight for photographers. The exterior architecture and the historic churchyard also offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Afternoons can offer good natural light for capturing the details of the church and its stained glass. Early mornings might provide a more serene backdrop for exterior shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
History Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to study the stained glass windows,
Art & Architecture Lovers
Consider visiting during daylight hours to best capture the light filtering through the windows. The churchyard also presents opportunities for capturing the interplay of nature and ancient structures, making it a rewarding visit for anyone interested in the aesthetic qualities of historical buildings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Beyond its structural history, the church is celebrated for its ornate interior and exterior details. The stained glass windows are particularly noteworthy, drawing admiration for their artistry and vibrant colors.
Experiencing the Atmosphere
The churchyard is an integral part of the experience, offering a tranquil escape with its varied trees and historical remnants. It’s a place where visitors can take a moment to reflect on the centuries of history that have unfolded on this site. The combination of the historic church and its peaceful grounds creates a memorable and calming visit for all who come.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit