English Heritage sites near Stourpaine Parish
FIDDLEFORD MANOR
5 miles from Stourpaine Parish
The principal parts of a small stone manor house, probably begun about 1370 for William Latimer, Sheriff of Somerset and Dorset. The hall and solar chamber display outstandingly fine timber roofs.
KNOWLTON CHURCH AND EARTHWORKS
10 miles from Stourpaine Parish
The siting of this ruined medieval church at the centre of a Neolithic ritual henge earthwork symbolises the transition from pagan to Christian worship and creates an atmospheric scene.
OLD WARDOUR CASTLE
11 miles from Stourpaine Parish
Set in landscaped grounds beside a lake in peaceful Wiltshire countryside, these 14th century ruins provide a relaxed, romantic day out for couples, families and budding historians alike.
SHERBORNE OLD CASTLE
14 miles from Stourpaine Parish
Built on a grand scale in the 12th century by the Bishop of Salisbury, Sherborne was coveted by churchmen and noblemen alike giving it a long, chequered history. Picnic, shop, light refreshments.
MAIDEN CASTLE
18 miles from Stourpaine Parish
Among the largest and most complex of Iron Age hillforts in Europe, Maiden Castle’s huge multiple ramparts enclose an area the size of 50 football pitches and once protected hundreds of residents.
THE NINE STONES
20 miles from Stourpaine Parish
Now in a wooded glade, this small prehistoric circle of nine standing stones was constructed around 4,000 years ago and is surrounded by a mysterious air. Winterbourne Poor Lot Barrows are nearby.
Churches in Stourpaine Parish
Stourpaine: Holy Trinity
Manor Road
Stourpaine
Blandford Forum
01725 516311
http://www.psdbenefice.org.uk/the-parishes/holy-trinity
Holy Trinity Church, which serves the parish, lies on the south side of the village, close to remains of the earthwork that once formed the fortified manor of the Payne family, and plays a major role in the life of the village. The church dates from the early English period, with subsequent additions and Victorian refurbishment.
As well as providing a cool, quiet place for regular worship and reflection the church continues to be at the heart of most village activities. Though the choir is small it can be quickly augmented for special occasions and has an organist and choirmaster of singular enthusiasm and talent. There is a very active bell tower of 6 bells and ringers of all skill levels and great potential. Visiting teams sometimes rings the bells.
Stourpaine is part of the Benefice of Pimperne, Stourpaine and Durweston with Bryanston. Every 5th Sunday of the month there is a Benefice Service with each Parish taking it in turns to host it.
Pubs in Stourpaine Parish
White Horse Inn
Shaston Road, Stourpaine, DT11 8TA
(01258) 453535
whitehorse-stourpaine.co.uk/