Church of Saint Stephen

The Church of Saint Stephen stands in Charlton Musgrove, a village in Somerset. Built in the 13th century, it is a Grade II* listed building of local importance. The church has strong ties to Bruton Priory from the 12th century. For over three centuries, members of the Leir family served as rectors, from 1661 until 1976. A Victorian restoration in 1884 led to disputes when the rector failed to seek the bishop’s approval. The stone structure has slate roofs and features a three-bay nave and a two-bay chancel. A three-stage west tower holds three bells and is adorned with hunky punks and gargoyles. Inside, an octagonal font dates from the 17th century, and a hatchment from 1660 hangs on the wall. The church belongs to the benefice of Charlton Musgrove, Cucklington and Stoke Trister in the Diocese of Bath and Wells. Visitors find a quiet country church with medieval roots and later additions. The tower’s carved figures and the font’s simple design reflect different eras. The hatchment records an early rector’s coat of arms. The setting remains peaceful, surrounded by Somerset’s rolling countryside.