St Mary's Church, Badley

St Mary’s Church stands in the quiet Suffolk countryside east of Stowmarket. A mile-long farm track leads to the Grade I-listed building, set on the west side of the B1113 road. Most of the church dates from the 15th century, though its oldest stonework belongs to around 1200. The roofs were added in the early 16th century and the tower’s top stage rebuilt then as well. A 14th-century south porch was largely renewed in the 20th century. The church is worth visiting for its well-preserved medieval fabric and later fittings. The nave and chancel share 15th-century windows, while the west window has five lights. Inside, the 13th-century Purbeck marble font and 17th-century oak cover remain in place. The box pews, some carved with animal figures, have not been altered since the 18th century. The Bevington organ and iron communion rails add further interest. Visitors find a simple flint and brick exterior with a tiled roof and a west tower. Inside, the nave contains 15th- to 17th-century pews and a plain 17th-century pulpit. The chancel holds 18th-century panels of the Ten Commandments and memorials to the Poley family, including a Baroque monument to Sir Henry Poley. In the churchyard lies the war grave of a Second World War airman.