Church of St Catherine, St Catherine

The Church of St Catherine stands in the small village of St Catherine in Somerset. Built in the 12th century as a chapel for Bath, it has been protected as a Grade II* listed building. The manor once belonged to Prior Cantlow of Bath Abbey during medieval times. Around 1490 the church was remodelled, and the tower was added in 1503. Further changes came in 1704, 1846 and 1880. Inside, a 12th-century font and a 15th-century pulpit remain. The church lies within the grounds of St Catherine’s Court, a 16th-century house that is Grade I listed. Since 1258 St Catherine has formed part of the parish of Batheaston with St Catherine. The benefice belongs to the archdeaconry of Bath in the Diocese of Bath and Wells. Its long history shows in the layers of work from different centuries. Visitors find a quiet building with simple stonework and a low tower. The 12th-century font sits near the entrance, while the 15th-century pulpit stands against the north wall. The churchyard is small and peaceful, surrounded by older yew trees. Inside, the light falls through clear windows onto plain benches and flag floors. The sense of age is strong, yet the space feels calm and uncluttered.