Church of St Leonard

The Church of St Leonard stands in Farleigh Hungerford, Somerset, on ground once inside the castle walls. Built in 1443, it is now separated from the castle by the main road. Thomas Hungerford had the new church built so local peasants could not enter the chapel inside the castle, which he wanted for his chantry. The church is a Grade II* listed building with a perpendicular-style west tower in three stages. Each face of the tower has a pair of stone gargoyles. The church contains remains of 14th-century stained glass in the north nave window and the east chancel window, both of Flemish origin. A 17th-century wooden altar rail is carved with open-work scrolls and figures. The early 18th-century pulpit is decorated with eagles and angels. Victorian restoration took place in 1856 under the direction of the Diocese of Bath and Wells. Visitors find a quiet interior with medieval glass fragments set in clear panes. The tower’s gargoyles stare down from each stage, while the altar rail and pulpit show fine woodwork. The church belongs to the Hardington Vale benefice and remains a peaceful place beside the old castle site.