Hascombe, St Peter
The old church was in a state of lamentable decay by the time Canon Musgrave became rector of Hascombe in 1862. The churchmen responsible decided that entire rebuilding was the only solution. Henry Woodyer, a pupil of Butterfield, was appointed architect. Demolition began in June 1863 and the new church, built on the old site at a cost of £3,100 was consecrated in June 1864.
The church was built in the general style of the late 13th century. It is of Bargate stone, quarried within the parish, with a shingled bellcote. The plan is simple; nave, chancel (or apse) and separately-roofed lady chapel. This simple plan sets off to best advantage the rich and intricate decoration on windows, walls and roof, the gilding and dark colours being further enhanced by the modern lighting. Much of the oak timber in the present porch came from the old porch. The massive mid-Victorian lock on the door was made to fit the ancient key with which the rectors of Hascombe have, for centuries, been inducted.
As you enter the church, you see to your left the spiral staircase leading to the belfry which houses a peal of five bells. These bells are exceptionally light and have an excellent tone and are rung every Sunday. To your right is the font of Purbeck marble, given by a rector of Hascombe in 1690. At the back of the nave is an interesting 18th century stone tablet in memory of William Diddlefold.
The stained glass windows by Hardman Powell commemorate events in the life of our Patron Saint – St Peter. Around the walls are the 'one hundred and fifty and three' fishes of the post-Resurrection miracle all caught in a net which is being dragged in by the 6 disciples – shown on the east wall – whilst St Peter 'girt in his fisher's garment' is seen casting himself into the sea (St John 21).
The pulpit's panels show our Lord and the two greatest preachers in scripture, Noah and St John the Baptist, with St Peter standing between them.
Hascombe owes a great debt to Canon Vernon Musgrave who was rector of the parish from 1862 to 1906 and was in consequence the last incumbent of the old church and the inspiration behind the building and decoration of the present one.
Postcode: GU8 4JA
Website: www.hascombe.com
Opening Times
Daily, dawn to dusk
Telephone: 01483 417 222
Service Times
| Sunday | 9.30am |
) Alternates with Dunsfold ) please check our website for dates |
| 2nd Sunday | 8am | 1662 Holy Communion |
| 6.30pm | Evensong (Summer) | |
| 3rd Sunday | 6pm | Evensong (Winter) |