Stoke by Clare St John the Baptist?s church

Image: © Adrian S Pye Taken: 29 Apr 2007

Under the window of one of the cottages near the church is what I believe is the base of an old cross. The 14th century tower dominates the church building. Round the back is a door to the stairs leading upwards. The outward appearance of this low squat-looking church is deceptive. Inside, it is nothing of the sort. It is tall with lofty arches and plenty of light from the clerestory. The octagonal font is nothing out of the ordinary. The small 15th century pulpit however, is quite exceptional. The tracery is quite different from any other and is arguably the finest in the county. A glimpse behind the organ pipes will reveal a painting of The Doom, and although not as spectacular as that at Wenhaston, it is still in reasonable condition. There is a fine parish chest and some of the carved bench ends are quite elaborate.

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