St Margaret's Church, Babington

St Margaret’s Church stands beside Babington House in Somerset. A Grade I listed building, it may occupy a site once used by a Norman church. The present church dates from 1748 and was probably built by John Strahan or William Halfpenny. Commissioned by the Knatchbull family, its design resembles Redland Chapel in Bristol. Inside, an apsidal sanctuary and a small west tower with an octagonal cupola can be seen. An unusual Royal Arms of the Hanoverians hangs on the rood screen. The church is worth the journey for its architectural links to the 18th century. Its interior features a distinctive Hanoverian coat of arms that draws historians. Three chest tombs in the churchyard mark John Shute, dated 1688, and Thomas Branch, dated 1779. Though regular services no longer take place, the building remains licensed for weddings and other ceremonies. The Knatchbull family’s patronage shaped both the church and the nearby house. The charitable trust that owns the church also supports community and cultural events. Visitors find a quiet churchyard with three historic chest tombs. Inside, the rood screen displays the unusual Royal Arms. The apsidal sanctuary and octagonal cupola add to the building’s character. The churchyard’s tombs include one for John Shute from 1688 and another for Thomas Branch from 1779. The interior reflects the 18th-century design commissioned by the Knatchbull family. The setting beside Babington House offers a peaceful contrast to the grander estate.