KNILL

The oldest surviving parts of St. Micheal's church at Knill are the masonary in the chancel and nave walls and one window in the north wall which are Norman from the late 12th century. The font is also from this period. The tower was added in the 13th century and was probably used as a watch tower in addition to its religeous purpose. The south doorway also dates from this time.

The churchyard cross is 14th century, although it was restored along with much of the church by the Victorians. More recently the head cross was broken off and lost but a replica was made in 1976 from an old photograph. The churchyard is a very peaceful and quiet place and contains some spectacular trees.

Inside the roof of the nave hang a collection of funeral hatchments dating from 1617 to 1874. The oldest probably commemorates the death of John Walsham and his wife Elizabeth Knill, who were both part of a dynasty which lasted over 700 years at the adjacent Knill Court. This building was destroyed by fire in 1942.