Bramfield St Andrew IP19 9HT

What’s special?

That detached tower and a woman called Bridgett Applewhaite whose epitaph you can read on one of the fine ledger stones in the chancel. The tragic but fascinating account tells us she ‘resolved to run the risk of a second marriage bed’. You will need to visit the church to find out what happens next.

How old is it?

The Domesday Book reveals there was a church in Bramfield pre-1086 – probably timber-framed as most churches were at that time and on the same site as the present 14^th century church. Did the Normans build one in between? No-one can be sure but the tower is thought to be 12^th century Norman.

Fast forward

St Andrew’s Bramfield is open daily, year round and welcomes visitors. An excellent church guide and village history accounts are available inside the church. The church occasionally holds concerts and other events. Find out more on the community website.

A NADFAS trail is available in the church to help children and families get the most out of the architecture, history and furnishings.

Other highlights

• The collection of headstops outside the church. These are the curious heads, carved in stone at the end of the mouldings over doors and windows
• The memorial to Arthur Coke and the effigy of his wife Elizabeth, produced by none other than Nicholas Stone, a talented late 16^th century sculptor whose work is in St Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey. The inclusion of her infant daughter reminds us that she tragically died in childbirth
• The lavishly carved and decorated rood screen, is among East Anglia’s finest. Five of the eight saints survive
• The 19th century nave windows featuring plants that have religious symbolism
• The 15th century wall painting in the nave

Famous connections

Not exactly famous today but the Rabett family, of Norman descent, lived at Bramfield Hall for over 400 years. Spot the ‘rabbits’ featured in their arms on the 18^th century hatchments and in one of those ledger stones in the chancel.

 What’s nearby?

• The Queen’s Head pub is on the doorstep with its tempting menus and you can drop by for coffee from 11am on weekdays and Saturdays.
• Walpole Old Chapel is in the neighbouring village, open on Saturdays in summer and for special events
• Darsham Nurseries and café is also nearby and a great place for breakfast or lunch. You can eat outside in the colourful gardens in summer
• The market town of Halesworth is minutes away with its independent shops, including a health store and deli for picnic fare.
• You are only about seven miles from the coast at Dunwich

Things to note: disabled access

The church is accessible to people with disabilities but you advised to come accompanied if possible and to use the chancel door rather than the porch.