When John Seymour was granted the lease of the Prebend of Bitton in 1550, he was probably the most well connected young man in England. Just twenty years old, he was the half brother of Queen Jane Seymour, wife of Henry VII and uncle to the young King Edward VI. For the next two hundred years the Seymours were the most prominent and powerful family in the area, holding sway over the village and the church.
The family vault is located below the sanctuary of the chancel in St Mary’s Church, with a memorial pictured) to a later Sir John Seymour above it. The church also holds a Communion Cloth dedicated to his memory.
You can see the cloth (recently restored) and other artefacts of St Mary’s, at our open day on Saturday 13th September 10.00am to 5pm. We are open as part of Heritage Open Days. The event is free and partnered with Bitton Parish History Group. More information on our website where you can to reserve a free ticket to one of the tours. (Sorry – afternoon tour is now full)
Refreshments available. Parking in adjacent Glebe Field.