St. Andrew, Didling

Description

St Andrew’s Didling is a single-cell downland church, superbly sited on a gentle sweep of the Downs, with extensive views northwards across the Rother Valley. It was built in the 13th century and contains a rough-hewn font which may be even older. It is known as the Shepherds’ Church, and sheep still graze in its surrounding fields.
Its walls are limewashed, both outside and inside, and it has remained largely unchanged ever since the pulpit and altar rails were put in place in the 17th century. The gnarled oak pews date from the 15th century. It has no water or electricity and is lit entirely by candles. Services are held there twice a month. (See website for details)

Visitors from all over world visit the church to enjoy its solitude and simple beauty. Walkers who take the trouble to make their way down to it from the South Downs Way are not disappointed. It is open every day from dawn till dusk.

Location

Didling, MIDHURST, Sussex, GU29 0LG, United Kingdom

Directions

Grid Reference: SU835180
By car: From Midhurst follow the Bepton Road for three miles. At a junction, turn right and follow the road through Bepton towards Didling. On reaching Didling (just a farm and a scattered group of cottages) turn left and, almost immediately, as the road bears right look for a narrow lane leading straight up the Downs to the church (there is a signpost at the bottom of the lane). There is little turning space outside the church, so it is advisable to reverse up the lane.

Facilities

Wheelchair access is inhibited by three steps leading to the church gate.
There are no nearby toilet facilities.
The Three Horseshoes pub in Elsted is about 4 miles away.

Hospitaller/Contact Person

Canon Simon Holland,
The Rectory,
The Street
South Harting
Petersfield
GU31 5QB

Tel: 01730 642125

Email:

Web Link

https://www.harting.org.uk/

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