Church of St Mary, Moorlinch

The Church of St Mary stands on the southern slope of the Polden Hills in the Somerset Levels. Built in the 13th century, it is one of the oldest churches in the area and holds Grade I listed status. Records suggest a church existed here as early as 725 under King Ine, though these early charters are disputed. By the 13th century it belonged to Glastonbury Abbey, which helped shape its development. The nave dates from the 12th century, while the chancel was added in the 14th. Inside, the church preserves features from different ages. The 12th-century font remains in use, and the Jacobean pulpit was crafted from older perpendicular panels. The organ, built in 1800 by James Davis, still fills the nave with music. The tower houses six bells, the oldest cast in 1651 by Thomas Purdue of Closworth. These elements show how the building has grown and changed over centuries. Visitors enter through the south porch, which leads into the nave. The chancel’s 14th-century arches frame the altar, while the font stands near the west door. The tower’s bells are rung on special occasions, and the organ plays during services. The church sits quietly among the hills, its stone walls holding stories from Saxon times to the present.