Entrance Gate into the church grounds.
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A beautiful stone carving.
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Stone ruins. Not certain what they were, probably from the castle that once stood there.
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Monday, 18 May 2015
TONG CHURCH.
Saint Bartholomew`s church at Tong is over 600 years old. This notable landmark is often described as "The Westminster Abbey of the Midlands". The church appears in Simon Jenkins Thousand best churches in England and is one of the very few grade I listed churches in Shropshire, England. St Bartholomew`s church is also recognised as the setting for the closing chapters of Charles Dickens " The Old Curiosity Shop". Despite the significance of the churches heritage, Tong is only a tiny parish with less than 200 inhabitants. As well as being a significant example of early fifteenth century architecture, the church contains the tombs of many members of the Vernon family. It has retained numerous original features including 16 choir stalls with Misericords, the original chancel screens and pews, a fine 16th century chantry chapel and the tomb to Sir Thomas Stanley with an epitaph written for him by William Shakespeare. It`s unusually shaped tower contains, among others the Great Bell of Tong , which is the largest bell in Shropshire. On the day we visited the church was closed, so was unable to photograph the lovely interior. Maybe we will go back another time.
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The steeple on this church may be a bit unusual, but I like it. It would be interesting to know who the grave holds from a historical perspective. Of course I have to ask if the clock is accurate? The architecture as you said is quite nice. I like this place. Good pictures, my friend!
ReplyDeleteYes my friend the time was spot on.
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