Bishopstone Church Restoration

ST JOHN THE BAPTIST CHURCH, BISHOPSTONE

A church has existed on the site of St John the Baptist, Bishopstone since around 1225. However, most of the present structure dates from the 14th century. The church is listed Grade 1 in Historic England’s list of Buildings of Architectural or Historic Interest. More information about the church can be found in the Home/History section of this website and in the Guide Book referred to below.

North Transept

An investigation carried out in 2024 in the North Transept (see plan below) highlighted major structural problems with the supporting roof trusses and an urgent need to repair the roof which is in danger of collapse. The North Transept has been cordoned off for safety. This situation has reduced the seating capacity of the church by 25% and made it unattractive (with the visible safety tape) for fund-raising activities such as concerts and weddings. It has also stopped access for visitors to view significant tombs and memorials in the church - including a tomb with a particularly large 14th century Merchant’s Mark and an elaborate monument to a 16th century rector. This has reduced visitor numbers. Overall, the closure of the North Transept has resulted in a general reduction in use of the building and impacted the PCCs finances.

The Restoration Project

The Bishopstone Church Restoration project is a major undertaking to save this part of the church from collapse. Repairing the failing structure, resurfacing the roof, replacing the transept ceiling and improving roof ventilation will save this heritage as a legacy of local and English history for generations to come and enable our planned activities to increase access and improve inclusivity.

Costs and fund raising

The costs of the repairs and associated improvements to expand and improve the way the church can be used are significant – in the order of £300,000. It is proposed to meet these costs through a combination of local fund raising by the PCC and by the Friends of Bishopstone Church and via applications for grant funding. A team was formed in early 2025 to apply for a grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF). This was submitted in October 2025 and a response is expected early in 2026. If the bid to the NLHF is successful repair work will start in the spring/summer of 2026.

Details of the work of The Friends of Bishopstone Church are set out on a separate page on this website. Since the start of 2025 the Friends have undertaken a series of fund raising events in aid of the restoration project. These have included an Antiques Evening, Organ Recital, Open Gardens, Nearly New Sale, an Exhibition of Christening Gowns and two talks: one on the Troubles of Northern Ireland, and one on Introduction to Rocket Science. During 2026 they are planning many other events which will be advertised in STaB and on this website.

Funds are also being raised through the sale of a new Guide to the Church, a Church Jigsaw Puzzle and Restoration Project Tea Towels.

Make a Donation

Donations can be made to the project fund by bank transfer to The Friends of Bishopstone Church:

Account Number: 88097160

Sort Code: 30-97-41