Newton St Cyres Church & Tower Guided Tours, Devon
Newton St Cyres Church, Church Lane, Newton St Cyres, Exeter, Devon, EX5 5BH
The 14th century church, with its 13th century tower, stands on a small hillside overlooking the village and is dedicated to St Julitta and St Cyr, her young son. The oldest part is the twelfth century tower, with its clock (1711) and inside an eight-bell peal (1733 on). Of the many tributes to parish life, the largest are a fine monument to Sir John Northcott (1632) and a rare Royal Arms of James II. Our History Group members will take small groups for tours of the interior, the church grounds and adjoining Arborteum. For those with a head for heights (and good footwear!) there will be guided safe tours up the church tower, past the bell chamber (8 bells) to the roof with its wonderful views of the Mid Devon countryside. On the first day of our tours (Wed 11 September) there is the option of a two-course lunch by ADONAI volunteers in the nearby Village Hall - or bring your own picnic to have in the Arboretum. On the second day of this event (Sat 14 September) the Newton St Cyres Ramblers will lead a short afternoon 'pilgrimage' (approx 1 hour) along the river, across fields to our sister church, The Church of Our Lady, in the village of Upton Pyne - where refreshments and guided tours will be available.
Newton St Cyres Church, Church Lane, Newton St Cyres, Exeter, Devon, EX5 5BH
The church toilet is outdoors along a graveled and sloping path. Volunteers will assist if required. Church Tower Tours: guests will need good shoes/boots and be aware of the narrow tower stairway - and have a head for heights
The 'pilgrimage' event on Saturday 14th Sept (approx 1 hour 15 minutes along the River Creedy, across fields and up lanes) links the two churches - Newton St Cyres and Upton Pyne. They have historical links which visitors will see from the guided tour of Newton (morning) and Upton (afternoon). Upton Pyne will also be offering refreshments for the 'pilgrims'. Before departing from Newton St Cyres at 1.15pm you may wish to bring a packed lunch which can be enjoyed in the delightful arboretum adjoining the church.