Outside Views Inside Memorials Thomas Spackman Monument Gravestones:     A-D     E-H     I-R     S-Z Church History John Aubrey's visit

John Aubrey described 'Cliff Pypard vulgo Pepper' as:   "There is a handsome Church, and have been very good windowes."   We agree!

Clyffe Pypard is a small village, with a general air of contentment.   The houses are nicely kept and gardens in order, as if they were designed to keep tourists happy!   The pub, The Goddard Arms, even has a sign that welcomes horses, and a place to tether them.

The church seems much larger than necessary for the size of the village as it is today.   Whilst we were at the church, one of its members came to welcome us.   He suggested the church was built by the Goddard family and their workers - some 300 - were expected to attend each week.   The Aubrey book states otherwise - "... of Lord Cobham, who they say died in the grounds here. He built this church." But whomever built the church made a very good job!

Today there are just six regulars who attend services.   But they do a fine job of looking after the building - it was clean and well cared for.   The grave yard was being tended to whilst we were there - we were told four members looked after the land - a quarter of the cemetery each.   Now that takes dedication!   It struck us that there was no 'children's area' which we have seen in other churches - where are the next generation who will take on the care of the building for future generations?

A few years ago a new roof was needed.   Work is presently needed on the tower - a surveyor will be visiting soon.   These wonderful old buildings have survived centuries.   It seems sad that in the 21st century, when we have the technology and knowledge of how to preserve them, it is lack of money that is the problem.   It is a continual struggle to raise money - a precarious existence.   This church would be grateful to receive a donation towards the upkeep of their building.

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Taken from the village May 2000 (544k)

St. Peter May 2000 (562k)

May 2000 (352k)

May 2000 (513k)

November 2003 (510k)

Tower May 2000 (92k)

Clock on tower May 2000 (93k)

November 2003 (97k)

South Porch door November 2003 (580k)

Painted wood above door November 2003 (80k)

Ceiling of Porch November 2003 (734k)

Goddard Arms Public House - Notice the 'Horses Welcome' sign!! May 2000 (66k)

White horse, near Clyffe Pypard May 2000 (93k)