Building
Westfield Church is a beautiful little Norman building, dating from the mid-12th century.
Apart from an extra aisle added in Victorian times the structure of the building has changed little over the years. Its charming chancel arch, its woodwork and its large light windows make it a very friendly place in which to worship.
Set in a lovely churchyard, it is a very striking sight as one rounds the corner and enters the village.
The church is fairly compact, seating about 150 people on pine pews with attractive little doors. Externally it is often referred to as the “most buttressed church in Sussex”.
Of its three ancient bells only one is now rung. Guided Tour
Brief History
(To compliment the information here and for a more complete history of the Church please refer to the pages on the Westfield History website)
Although Westfield is mentioned in the Domesday Book, there is no reference to a church.
The present building was built in the early 12th century, consisting of a nave and short chancel. The tower appears to have been built soon afterwards. When the rectory was granted to Battle Abbey in 1251, the chancel was extended 13 ft 6 in eastwards, probably to accommodate the brothers who resided in what is now Church Place Farm.
Considerable alterations were made in the 14th century, and again in the l7th century.
In 1861 the north wall of the nave was demolished and the north aisle built, along with a vestry. Shortly afterwards the Jacobean pews were replaced with the existing pine pews.
Before you leave ... please spend some time quietly remembering that this place has been used for the worship of God for nine centuries. Pray for yourself, those you love, and for all who worship here.
Garden of Remembrance
As you leave the church you may like to visit the garden of remembrance which is in the west corner of the churchyard. This place of peace and tranquillity provides an opportunity to contemplate the mystery of God who made us from dust yet calls us to eternal life.