Lustleigh - exterior - feature

St John the Baptist, Lustleigh

St John’s stands in the middle of the village of Lustleigh, often described as the prettiest in Dartmoor.

The Church

Though the earliest part of the present church dates to the 13th century there is every reason to believe these was a church here before the Norman Conquest. The raised churchyard is roughly oval, an indication of 5th or 6th century Christian graveyard, possibly on the site of an even earlier pagan burial site.

Another indication of the very early origins is a carved stone known as ‘Datuidoc Stone’ which stands upright at the west end of the North Aisle. This stone is thought to have been a Pre-Christian grave marker erected sometime between AD 550-620.

The chancel is the oldest part of the Church dating back to the 13th century. The ornately carved chancel screen erected during the reign of Mary I (1553-58) is decorated with small heads amid vines and flowers. Grotesque figures face the nave while figures of saints face the chancel and altar. There are carvings of pomegranates, the symbol of Mary I’s mother, Catherine of Aragon.

The south trancept served as the mortuary chapel for the Lords of the Manor of Lustleigh. In a recess in the south wall is an effigy of a knight thought to be Sir William le Prouz, who died in 1326.

Typical service schedule

first Sunday of the monthMorning Prayer
second Sunday of the monthHoly Communion
third Sunday of the monthEvensong
fourth Sunday of the monthCeltic Morning Prayer

There is a church discussion group which meets weekly.

We have an annual Pet Service, Harvest Festival and Carol Service, together with various concerts held in the Church.

Lustleigh - interior
Lustleigh - sheep

Upcoming services & events

All services and events across North Dartmoor Parishes.

In the community

The small vestry building in the churchyard houses the village archive, which is open seasonally.

We have an annual May Day parade, Pancake race and Village Show.

Lustleigh - Asperging the May Queen
Asperging the May Queen
Lustleigh - Pancake Race
Shrove Tuesday Pancake Race

Contact us

For matters relating to the Church, including inquiries re baptisms/christenings, weddings, funerals, or other events, please contact:

You can connect via:

Otherwise, please use the information on the Contact Us or Safeguarding pages.

How to find us

Head to the centre of the village, and the church faces a small green and is opposite the village tearoom.

There is parking is in the centre of the village on surrounding roads.

Accessibility

  • Wheel-chair access via the gate to the south of the churchyard
  • Hearing loop available
  • Toilet facilities near the village shop

We very much look forward to welcoming you!