Church in the Wood

Church in the Wood stands in a quiet wood on the edge of Hastings in East Sussex. Built in the 13th century, it replaced an 11th-century chapel and has stood alone for centuries. The church was restored in the 19th century, giving it its present Early English Gothic appearance. Some medieval stonework and an ancient bell from between 1371 and 1392 remain. The oldest surviving gravestone in the churchyard dates from 1678, and the first recorded burial took place in 1606. The church is linked to legends and writers. Charles Lamb praised its secluded setting, and stories tell of a battle between builders and the Devil. The dedication changed from St Rumbold to St Leonard over centuries. The church survived despite decay in the 19th century, thanks to parishioners who insisted on repairs. A lychgate was added in 1937, and an extension for a parish room was built in 1977. Inside, the church has a nave, chancel, bell tower, porch, vestry, and modern parish hall. The east window holds a stained glass depiction of the Resurrection by Jean-Baptiste Capronnier from 1873. Other windows show Faith, Hope, and Charity, likely by Clayton and Bell. The ancient woodland around the church is preserved as one of Hastings’ nature reserves.