St Peter and All Hallows Church, West Huntspill

St Peter and All Hallows Church stands in the Somerset Levels village of West Huntspill. The building began before 1208, was rebuilt around 1400 and enlarged in the early to mid-15th century. A serious fire in 1878 left only the stone walls standing, after which the church was restored within two years. It carries Grade I listed status and occupies land once granted by Offa of Mercia to Glastonbury Abbey. The dedication changed from All Saints to St Peter around 1872 and later became St Peter and All Hallows in the 1950s. The church is worth the journey for its long history and fine fittings. The six bells in the four-stage west tower date from 1879, replacing five earlier ones, the oldest cast in 1693. The nave and chancel each have five bays, giving the interior a spacious feel. After the 1878 fire, Victorian restorers rebuilt the roof and interior while keeping the original stonework. A Lady Chapel and the north door were later fitted with new glass, though work was delayed when the contractor went into receivership. Inside, visitors find a five-bay nave and chancel with a four-stage west tower. The tower contains six bells, the newest from 1879 and the oldest from 1693. Victorian restoration after the fire preserved the stone walls while renewing the roof and furnishings. The Lady Chapel and north door now contain modern glasswork installed after earlier delays. The church belongs to the Huntspill and East Huntspill benefice within the Axbridge deanery.