Church of St Barnabas, Queen Camel

The Church of St Barnabas stands in the village of Queen Camel in Somerset. Built in the 14th century, it is a Grade I listed building with a tall tower rising in five stages. The tower dates from around 1491 and holds six heavy bells. These bells form the heaviest complete set of six in the world by total weight. The churchyard includes a Commonwealth war grave of a Royal Navy seaman from the First World War. The church has strong links to local history. Before 1140 it served as the mother church to Somerton, Chilton Cantelo and the surrounding area. In the 12th century it was given to Cleeve Abbey. The first recorded rector arrived in 1317. Victorian restoration took place in 1888. Inside, memorials honour members of the Mildmay family, who once held the manor. Visitors find a wooden rood screen and an octagonal stone font supported by four carved figures. The tower’s height reaches 96 feet, offering views over the village and countryside. The churchyard is peaceful, with yew trees and simple gravestones. Nearby lie the villages of Corton Denham, Sparkford and West Camel, all part of the same benefice.