St Martha’s Church
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The beautiful St Martha’s Church (also known as St Martha-on-the-Hill) is a listed grade II Historic building. Perched on the top of the hill on the North Downs Way National Trail, the building is accessible only by foot. It is the only church in Surrey to be on the Pilgrims’ Way and featured briefly in the 1944 film A Canterbury Tale. A 12th-century church existed here before falling into ruin by the 18th century.
The church was rebuilt in 1848–50 to the designs of Henry Woodyer who incorporated many of the original 12th-century architectural features including Norman arches to the main entrance as well as zig zag moulded lancet windows on the tower. The church believes it may have been built as a landmark or beacon to assist travellers or encourage pilgrimage to Canterbury or Winchester Cathedrals.
The graveyard of the church includes a memorial to actress and singer Yvonne Arnaud, whose ashes were scattered there.
Find out more about St Martha’s Hill and the location guide on the Explore Surrey page below.
