St Lawrence's Church, Snarford

St Lawrence’s Church stands beside the A46 between Market Rasen and Lincoln, a medieval limestone building now cared for by the Churches Conservation Trust. It was begun in the 12th century and enlarged in the 14th, 15th, 16th and 19th centuries. The tower is the oldest part, dating from the 12th century, while the nave and chancel were reshaped in later centuries. The church once served Snarford Hall and its owners, the St Pol family, though the hall itself has vanished. It was declared redundant in 1995 and is now a Grade I listed building. The church is worth visiting for its remarkable monuments. The most striking is the tomb chest of Sir Thomas St Pol, who died in 1588, and his wife. Their effigies lie beneath a painted and gilded canopy carried by six pillars, each topped with a weeping figure. Nearby is the tomb of Sir George St Pol, who died in 1613, with recumbent effigies and mourning putti. A third monument commemorates Robert Rich, 1st Earl of Warwick, who died in 1619; it features a medallion of his head and shoulders and a coat of arms. Inside, the 14th-century tower arch and 15th-century chancel arch frame the space. The octagonal font, carved with heads, shields and foliage, is also from the 15th century. The fittings date mainly from the 19th century. The north chapel and chancel contain brasses and painted plaques, while the south doorway and windows show 14th- and 15th-century work. The church’s quiet setting and fine craftsmanship make it a place to study medieval and later art in detail.