Devon - Morchard Bishop

Slap-bang in that middle of that bit of Devon that everyone ignores, this charming little walk takes in the rolling hills with views across to both Dartmoor and Exmoor.

Standing on top of a 175m hill, Morchard Bishop, with it's impressive 15th Century Church, is an impressive landmark for the area.

Almost the entire church dates from the late medieval and Tudor period, with the exception of the panelled and plastered chancel, which was rebuilt in the 18th century. The east window contains colourful 18th century glass. Below the window is the altar, with a finely carved late 18th century wooden reredos flanked by Ionic pilasters. In an oval panel atop the reredos is an inscription reading 'This do in Remembrance of me'. The altar rails were crafted in 1768 by W. Stribling. In the north aisle is a 17th century oak chest with an arcaded front design.

Without doubt the most interesting feature inside the church is a beautifully carved and painted late medieval screen. The ornate carving and colourful painting is similar to that at St Thomas' church in Canterbury, Kent. The upper section has very fine Perpendicular Gothic tracery, and the canopy is made up of exceptionally intricate friezes depicting foliage. 

We'll be starting at Morchard Road train station and walking up to Morchard Bishop along the Two-Moor ways and past through former deer parks that once belongs to the Bishop of Exeter.