Church of St Decuman, Watchet

The Church of St Decuman stands on a high ridge above Watchet in Somerset, its 13th-century chancel and 15th-century nave rising above the town. The building is listed Grade I and overlooks the harbour and coastline from its prominent position. Saint Decuman is said to have been killed here in 706, giving the church its name. James Piers St Aubyn restored and reseated the interior between 1886 and 1891, adding new seating and fittings. Further changes in 1896 included a Caen stone reredos behind the altar. Francis Carolus Eeles praised the church in 1932 for its fine 13th-century east window and richly carved wagon roofs. Inside, the nave and south aisle show perpendicular tracery and a rood screen with elaborate carving. The organ was a gift in 1933 from W. Wyndham, a local landowner. At the east end of the north aisle lies the Wyndham Chapel, dedicated to the family who once owned Orchard Wyndham House nearby. The chapel contains a monument to Sir John Wyndham, who helped organise defences against the Spanish Armada in the West Country. His parents’ memorial stands beside his, and a chest tomb with brass figures separates the chapel from the chancel. Beyond the church, the churchyard holds the remains of a 15th-century stone cross. Below the building is St Decuman’s well, rebuilt in the 19th century on a medieval site. The well is linked to the legend of the saint, adding to the site’s spiritual significance. Visitors walk among these layers of history, from medieval stonework to later memorials, all set against views of the town and sea.