Virgin & Child
The east window of the south aisle contains significant elements of 14th century stained glass, reset here and augmented with Victorian glass of rather more lurid colouring.
St Mary's at Enville is an imposing sight, it's magnificent south-west tower beckons to the visitor from its hillside position where one is confronted by this warm toned sandstone building, which is rather restored but well worth seeing.
The handsome Perpendicular-style tower is in fact a Victorian rebuilding by G.G.Scott who restored the church in 1871-4, leaving a strong imprint on the building, also entailing the rebuilding of the chancel. The exterior thus suggest a 19th century church, so it is a surprise to enter another world within.
It takes some time for the eyes to adjust upon entering the church as it is rather dark (with stained glass in nearly every window), but the first features revealed are the Norman nave arcades, again somewhat restored. There is much of interest here, with some medieval glass and some interesting tombs, whilst in the chancel are four 15th century choir stalls with very fine misericords. The rest of the glass is mostly Victorian aside from two very good contemporary windows.
St Mary's appears to be generally kept open and welcoming and is well worth a visit, its restored exterior and dark interior conceal some fine features that will reward spending some time here.
Virgin & Child
The east window of the south aisle contains significant elements of 14th century stained glass, reset here and augmented with Victorian glass of rather more lurid colouring.
St Mary's at Enville is an imposing sight, it's magnificent south-west tower beckons to the visitor from its hillside position where one is confronted by this warm toned sandstone building, which is rather restored but well worth seeing.
The handsome Perpendicular-style tower is in fact a Victorian rebuilding by G.G.Scott who restored the church in 1871-4, leaving a strong imprint on the building, also entailing the rebuilding of the chancel. The exterior thus suggest a 19th century church, so it is a surprise to enter another world within.
It takes some time for the eyes to adjust upon entering the church as it is rather dark (with stained glass in nearly every window), but the first features revealed are the Norman nave arcades, again somewhat restored. There is much of interest here, with some medieval glass and some interesting tombs, whilst in the chancel are four 15th century choir stalls with very fine misericords. The rest of the glass is mostly Victorian aside from two very good contemporary windows.
St Mary's appears to be generally kept open and welcoming and is well worth a visit, its restored exterior and dark interior conceal some fine features that will reward spending some time here.