Church of St Martin

The Church of St Martin stands in the village of North Stoke in Somerset. It dates from the 12th century and is built on the site of an earlier Roman temple. Evidence of a church on this spot goes back to the year 360. The west tower was added in the 12th century, while the nave and chancel were built later, between the 13th and 16th centuries. A major restoration in the 19th century repaired much of the fabric, and further work in 2012 rewired the building and fixed the roof. The church is recognised for its architectural features. The two-stage west tower is the oldest part of the current structure. Inside, a font was carved from a sacrificial altar, and there are monuments from the 18th century. The churchyard contains an ancient yew tree, adding to the site’s historic atmosphere. In January 2021, the church hosted BBC Radio 4’s Sunday Worship, showing its continuing role in the community. Visitors find a simple but historic building with a nave, chancel, and south porch. The font carved from an altar stands near the entrance. The churchyard’s ancient yew tree is a notable landmark. The interior holds monuments from past centuries, and the tower offers a view of the surrounding village. The church remains an active place of worship and a quiet spot for reflection.