St Peter & St Paul Church Clare

Is it a great ocean liner afloat on the skyline? No, it’s one of Suffolk’s great churches with ‘a small tower for a fo’c’sle and two turrets for masts’ as author Simon Jenkins once put it. This beautiful building dominates the north end of the town, reflecting the prosperity of Clare in the Middle Ages when the main trade was cloth-making.

What's special?

The exceptional height of nave and the huge aisle windows where the light streams in through the lavish arcades.

Look out for the gallery of 15th century roof faces and try out the handsome private pews, one bearing the emblems of Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon.

The 18th century ringers’ gotch – that’s a beer jug. Beer was once the payment for the ringers. Clare’s ring of eight is said to be the heaviest in Suffolk.

How old is it?

The present church dates back to at least 13th century but after a visit by the image-breaker William Dowsing in 1643, the heraldic glass in the east window is all that is left of the 15th century glass that once might have filled the church.

Opening Times

The church is open for visitors every day and there is a well-stocked shop and bookstall.

Monday - 10am until 4pm

Tuesday - 10am until 4pm

Wednesday - 10am until 4pm

Thursday - 10am until 4pm

Friday - 10am until 4pm

Saturday - 10am until 4pm

Sunday - Noon until 4pm (opens after main service)

** Please note that the church is a living building and as such there may be times when the church is temporarily closed to visitors to allow Funerals or events to take place - If you are making a special trip to visit do contact us in advance to confirm that the church will be available to you) **

Parking

Parking available around the church in Clare. The nearest car park is at Clare Country Park a five minute walk with moderate incline.