Empshott Holy Rood

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The Church of the Holy Rood is very much at the heart of our community life. It is always open to offer a haven of peace and reflection for the whole community.
There has been a church on the current site since approximately 1190AD and it has been a spiritual home to generations of villagers. Our beautiful and inspirational church building not only helps shape the character of our village but is a reminder of the presence of God in our daily lives, supporting people at times of joy and of sorrow. Plus, we have the Hut providing us with a community space for classes, groups and an event or two!
We are very grateful to all who support our work – generously giving their time, their talents and their money – especially through regular giving.
Though much rebuilt the church is of great interest, the oldest part being the chancel, which is Early English. The nave is later and its arcades, along with the chancel arch and eastern lancet windows have good dog-tooth mouldings. It seems that there were formerly north and south chapels to the chancel; the north has entirely disappeared; though the blocked arch leading into it remains. On the site of the south chapel is a modern vestry; and at the east end of the south aisle are the remains of an arch formerly leading into it. These chapels, together with the aisles, were probably destroyed in 1624, when there was much rebuilding. The original aisle walls were then re-erected at a distance of only 2 feet from the nave arcades, some of the old windows being re-used.

The recently re-shingled bell turret is carried on a truss dated 1624. The remainder of the nave roof and that of the chancel are modern. There is much interesting old woodwork. At the west end is an excellent chancel screen dated 1624, which was removed to its present position in 1868. The font is of Purbeck marble, c. 1190, with a cover dated 1624. The nave seats are c. 1400 and the lectern and pulpit are 16th century.

Welcome to Holy Rood which is the beautiful Parish Church of Empshott. We have a service most Sundays at 9.15 but please Check our notice sheet for details.  Most of our services use the Book of Common Prayer. All are Welcome!