“A historic parish church at the heart of Thurnham’s heritage and community.”

Located beneath the slopes of the Kent Downs, St Mary the Virgin Church is one of the oldest and most important historic buildings within Thurnham Parish. The church has served the local community for centuries and remains a significant part of the parish’s heritage, character, and spiritual life.

Surrounded by beautiful countryside and close to the ancient Pilgrims’ Way, the church occupies a peaceful and picturesque setting which reflects the rural character of Thurnham and the wider Kent Downs landscape.

History of the Church

St Mary the Virgin Church dates back to the Norman period, with parts of the building believed to originate from the 12th century. Historical records suggest that there may have been an even earlier place of worship on the site before the present church was constructed.

Over the centuries the church has been altered and carefully maintained, with different generations contributing to its preservation whilst retaining much of its original historic character. The building reflects many features of traditional English parish churches including medieval stonework, historic windows, timber features, and a traditional church tower.

The church forms an important part of Thurnham’s long history alongside nearby landmarks such as Thurnham Castle and the Pilgrims’ Way, both of which have shaped the history and development of the parish over many centuries.

Architecture and Setting

Constructed mainly from local Kentish ragstone, St Mary the Virgin Church is a fine example of a historic rural Kent church. The churchyard and surrounding landscape provide impressive views across the countryside and contribute significantly to the special character of the parish.

Inside the church visitors can find a number of historic features and memorials which help tell the story of the local community and the families connected with Thurnham through the generations.

The peaceful churchyard contains a variety of historic gravestones and memorials and remains an important place of remembrance and reflection within the parish.

The Church Today

St Mary the Virgin Church continues to play an active role within the local community. Regular church services, weddings, baptisms, funerals, seasonal celebrations, and community events continue to take place throughout the year.

The church remains a place of worship, reflection, and community gathering and welcomes both residents and visitors alike.

As one of the parish’s most valued heritage assets, the church contributes greatly to the identity and historic character of Thurnham Parish.

Visiting the Church

St Mary the Virgin Church is situated within the historic parish of Thurnham near Maidstone, Kent, in a peaceful countryside setting beneath the Kent Downs. The church can be viewed and appreciated as part of the wider historic landscape of the parish, alongside nearby heritage features including Thurnham Castle and the ancient Pilgrims’ Way.

Visitors are encouraged to respect the peaceful nature of the church and surrounding area whilst enjoying one of Thurnham’s most important historic landmarks.

Further information regarding services and church activities can be found through the local parish church and diocesan websites.

Further Information and Contacts

For further information regarding church services, weddings, baptisms, funerals, and community events, please visit the official church websites below:

• The Pilgrims Way Churches – Thurnham Church Page
• St Mary the Virgin Thurnham – A Church Near You
• The Pilgrims Way Churches Website

Church Contacts

Parish Administrator:
Nicky Reid
Telephone: 07707 053064

Team Vicar:
Rev Rob Tugwell
Telephone: 01622 630598

Thurnham Church forms part of the Pilgrims Way Churches group within the Diocese of Canterbury and continues to serve the local community through regular worship, pastoral support, and community events.