St. Mary’s Church, Puddletown

St. Mary’s Church, Puddletown is a magnificent medieval church featuring one of England’s finest collections of medieval woodwork including the stunning 15th-century oak roof, carved bench ends, and elaborate west gallery. The church dates from the 13th century with significant 15th-century additions creating impressive Perpendicular Gothic architecture. The interior showcases beautiful stonework, medieval stained glass fragments, wall paintings, and memorials to local families including the Martins of Athelhampton. Thomas Hardy knew this church well – Puddletown appears as ‘Weatherbury’ in ‘Far from the Madding Crowd.’ The building demonstrates Somerset-Dorset Perpendicular style at its finest. The craftsmanship of the woodwork rivals cathedral quality. St. Mary’s remains an active parish church welcoming visitors. Essential for appreciating medieval church architecture, craftsmanship, and Hardy connections. The church exemplifies how rural parish churches can contain treasures rivaling famous cathedrals.