St John the Evangelist

Gothic revival architecture sits surprisingly well in this quiet Dorset village, where St John the Evangelist commands attention with its distinctive spire visible from the surrounding countryside. Built in the 1840s, this Victorian church replaced an earlier medieval structure and showcases the confident ecclesiastical design of its era.

Inside, the nave stretches towards an impressive east window that floods the altar with coloured light on sunny mornings. The stonework is well-maintained, and there are some lovely carved details around the chancel arch that reward a closer look. History enthusiasts will appreciate the memorial plaques that tell stories of local families spanning generations.

Families staying at nearby Warmwell Holiday Park or Wareham Forest Tourist Park will find this makes for a peaceful half-hour stop, though younger children might lose interest after admiring the stained glass. The churchyard offers pleasant views across the Dorset countryside towards Dorchester, just a few miles north.

Being a working parish church, it's generally open during daylight hours, though it's worth checking locally if you're planning a special visit. The surrounding village has that proper English rural feel, making it well worth combining with a walk through the area. Allow about 30 minutes unless you're particularly drawn to Victorian church architecture - in which case, you could easily spend longer examining the craftsmanship.