Church of St Catherine, Drayton

The Church of St Catherine stands in the village of Drayton, Somerset, on land that has been used for worship since the 15th century. Built from blue lias and golden hamstone, the church is recognised as a Grade I listed building. Maurice Davis of Langport carried out a restoration in 1855, and a further round of repairs took place in 1896. The churchyard contains a 15th-century cross with a sculpture of St Michael defeating a dragon. A dispute over plans to install a new floor in the tower was settled by the Ecclesiastical Court in 2002. The church’s exterior materials and the dragon sculpture give it a distinctive appearance. The Grade I listing recognises its historical importance. The two restorations show how the building has been cared for over time. The dragon on the cross is a rare example of medieval craftsmanship. The Ecclesiastical Court’s involvement shows that even small changes can attract attention. Inside, visitors find a simple nave and chancel typical of Somerset churches. The tower houses the disputed floor, now in place. Outside, the hamstone walls and slate roofs blend with the surrounding countryside. The churchyard offers views across flat Somerset fields. The nearby Drayton Court, built in the early 19th century, adds to the village’s historic character.