St John The Baptist Church | Llanrothal

BREINTON
Dedication: St Michael
OS Grid Reference: SO 473 395
Road Reference: Off A438

Facilities:

Information:

St Michael's, `the quiet church' above the banks of the River Wye, is approximately two miles walking distance from Hereford City centre for visitors taking the Wye Walk.

The Norman church on this ancient site was restored in the 1860s by the Hereford architect F.R. Kempson, on the initiative of the then Vicar and Mr James Cranston, a wealthy nurseryman living in the parish.

Burials still take place in the pretty churchyard, which is a popular stopover for those walking along the north bank of the river, particularly when the surrounding apple orchards are in blossom.

Elgar often cycled to visit here, and the grave of his friend Canon Gorton is a notable feature to the south churchyard.

The visitor may be surprised by the light and welcoming interior of a church, which is much used today. The furnishings are mainly Victorian, but with an imposing more modern organ by Nicholson of Worcester, and some interesting memorials from its pre-restoration past.

There is a good selection of Victorian stained glass, the most notable window being opposite the south door and showing James Cranston, Kempson himself and the builders who did the work – but not in the clothes depicted!

At the time of writing, the original lych gate at the former western entrance to the churchyard is being restored.

The church is open Saturdays and Sundays from the beginning of May until the end of September. Occasionally coffee and refreshments are served.