This is the first of several posts from my recent visit to what has been described as the finest Georgian town in England. Though not a tourist trap like Bath Spa, it is utterly beautiful, the golden stone town rising from the meadows beside the river Welland. It has 600 listed buildings, 9 of which are on the High Street and has the highest percentage per population of Grade II* buildings.

St Michaels on the High Street was probably founded in the 12th century, and was rebuilt several times, especially in the early 18th century before becoming redundant in 1982 and threatened with demolition. Public outcry saved its exterior and the churchyard has been landscaped, but the interior has been gutted to become a series of shops. Though this was condemned, at least the skyline has been retained. The churchyard was renovated in 2016 to commemorate the 90th birthday of Queen Elizabeth II.

I’m fascinated by these children’s images

This shows some interesting styles

I think this means they had run out of space in the churchyard, but where are the bodies?

Here are some fine gargoyles and a grotesque from the church itself