Ancient Kent churches reopen after 650 years of abandonment
Historic Kent churches Dode and Paddlesworth open after extensive restorations
Two ancient churches, long abandoned due to the Black Death, have reopened together after more than 650 years. The churches, Dode and Paddlesworth, sit just 1.5 miles apart in Kent and once had thriving congregations until the plague struck in 1359.
Dode church, reportedly the inspiration for J.R.R. Tolkien’s Gandalf, was completely abandoned. Its bishop relocated to St Benedict’s in nearby Paddlesworth. On Sunday, August 18, after extensive restoration, both churches welcomed visitors, allowing them to explore the historic path between the two.
Douglas Chapman, who has overseen Dode church’s restoration, described the effort as a decades-long “labour of love.” He noted that historically, both churches were consistently attended but not overcrowded, with people often walking between them in the North Downs. This simultaneous opening marks a historic first for the churches.
Aylesford Priory, founded in 1242. ‘The Friars’ closed in 1538 and was soon repurposed as an ‘opulent stately home’. In 1949, it was repurchased by the Holy Order and was subsequently restored and returned to its original purpose. pic.twitter.com/6nKxw7ZN7f
— F. L. Forman (@formanofkent) May 20, 2024
Chapman purchased Dode church about 35 years ago and dedicated a decade to its restoration, which included clearing out tenants who had turned it into a “drugs den.” The church had not been used for official events since its priest was moved to Paddlesworth following the plague.
Despite rumours of a mass grave near Dode church, Chapman has resisted allowing archaeological digs on the site. He explained that the church had been locked up for over 600 years, with minimal restoration done in the early 1900s. Significant efforts included installing basic amenities like electricity and water.
While Dode now hosts weddings and naming ceremonies without religious affiliation, it no longer functions as a traditional church. It was originally built by Gundulf, the Bishop of Rochester, who also constructed several castles in London and Kent. Gundulf is believed to be the inspiration for Tolkien’s Gandalf.
Dode church is accessible to the public once every six weeks, whereas Paddlesworth Church welcomes visitors by appointment throughout the year.
Other Perspective
- The Mirror reports on the haunted church in the village of Stiffkey, Norfolk, which locals claim is the most haunted church in England, with tales of ghostly apparitions and unexplained occurrences.(read more)
- BBC News provides an overview of the Democratic Convention’s first night, highlighting President Biden, Hillary Clinton, and the next generation of leaders making the case for Kamala Harris, emphasizing their support and potential impact on the nomination process.(read more)
- KentLive reports on the abandoned Kent village of Dode, detailing its history and the devastating impact of the Black Death, which wiped out its entire population in 1349.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What are the names of the two ancient churches that reopened?
Dode and Paddlesworth.
How long were Dode and Paddlesworth churches closed?
Over 650 years.
Who restored Dode church?
Douglas Chapman.
Can the public visit Dode Church?
Yes, once every six weeks.
What inspired J.R.R. Tolkien’s character Gandalf?
Gundulf, the builder of Dode church.
