St Marychurch

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

St. Marychurch in Devon, England, is one of the oldest settlements in South Devon. Its earliest documentary record dates from around 1050 AD.

It is a former English borough, abolished in 1903 when it was incorporated into Torquay. The former town stretches from Plainmoor to Maidencombe and is known for its scenery, shopping precinct and neighbouring churches. These churches include:

  • Our Lady Help of Christians & St Denis (Roman Catholic) with its high steeple.
  • St Marychurch Parish Church with its high tower and Saxon font dating from around 1110 AD. On Sunday May 30, 1943, the main part of this church was destroyed by a German bomb, killing 21 children and 3 teachers.

Rumour has it that St Marychurch lost its status because its larger neighbour wanted a steamroller and could not afford its own.

Tourist attractions include Babbacombe Cliff Railway [1] Babbacombe Downs with its stunning views across Lyme Bay, and the Model Village at Babbacombe.