St Bridget's Church in Bridestowe, Devon, is a parish church in the Church of England and one of the central buildings in the rural area on the northwestern edge of Dartmoor. It is a Grade II* listed building of medieval construction with restorations made in the 19th century.[1][2]
Building
The church is mostly 13th and 15th century, with a west tower and some fragments of Norman work as well as Early English and Perpendicular styles.[3] It is dedicated to the Irish Saint Bride or Bridget, who is depicted in one of the stained glass windows, and from whom the name of the surrounding village is derived.[4] The church's distinctive gateway is described in White's Directories as "a fine Norman arch supposed to be the remains of the original church".[5] Restorations were carried out in circa 1820, 1866, and 1890.[6]
Memorials
On the north wall of the chancel is a 1665 memorial of 1665 to Lady Honor Fortescue Calmady, wife of Sir Shilston Calmady and mother of Josias Calmady.[7][8] The churchyard contains the grave of Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Wollocombe (1814).[9]
Current day
Regular services are only held on Sunday mornings.[10] A local flower festival is periodically held at the church.[11]
