Accessibility at Staunton Harold Church

A view from across the lake of Staunton Harold Church nestled into the countryside, surrounded by lush trees and lawns — A view of Staunton Harold Church | © National Trust/Susan Guy

Built between 1653 and 1655, Staunton Harold Church is a rare example of a church built between the outbreak of the English Civil War and the Restoration period. We want everyone to be able to explore Staunton Harold Church - read more to discover how you can best access this special place.

Arrival and parking

Staunton Harold Church sits within the wider Staunton Harold estate, which is privately owned and includes the Ferrers Centre for Arts and Crafts.

There are brown signs for the Staunton Harold estate, featuring an anvil symbol.

Assistance dogs are welcome inside the church. Dogs are welcome on leads in the churchyard, but please note that dog waste bins are not provided and any waste should be taken home.

There are no toilet facilities at the church, though there are some at the Ferrers Centre.
Parking is in the estate car park (not National Trust) and charges apply at weekends and bank holidays.

There is a gravel surface throughout, and parking bays are unmarked.

It may be possible to drop off visitors closer to the church, by prior arrangement only.

Car park

The car park is not owned by the National Trust - parking charges apply at weekends and bank holidays for all visitors.

Getting to the Church

The footpath to the church is located at the far end of the car park.

It is about 420 meters from the car park to the church, with a gradual descent to the church.

There is level access along the route with a mix of gravel and tarmac footpaths, as well as one footbridge.
A small churchyard stretches around the church - there is a mown grass path with level access around the building.

There is one small step into the churchyard, and a ramp is availabnle on one side of the path.

A footpath leading to Staunton Harold Church, Leicestershire — The footpath leading from the car park to Staunton Harold Church, Leicestershire | © National Trust/Steve Franklin

Leaving the car park

A footbridge at the far end of the car park leads towards Staunton Harold Church.

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Exploring the Church

There is a stone flag floor throughout the church, which is worn in places. Small floor mats are in use at more uneven places.

There is a low step inside the church, and a ramp is available on request.

The hard surfaces of the stone floor and wooden pews can cause sound echoes. The church clock chimes hourly.

Only the ground floor of the church is open for public access. There are two steps in the chancel in front of the altar, and low steps into the pews.
Visitors are welcome to sit in the wooden pews.

Fabric kneelers are available for use in some of the pews.

There are also two wooden benches in the churchyard, with arm rests on both sides.
A sensory bag including ear defenders and fidget toys is available to borrow from the volunteer in the church.

A portable induction loop is available, on request in advance of a visit.

Churchyard

There are two benches just inside the churchyard.

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Visual Story

Our Visual Story can help you prepare for your visit to Staunton Harold Church. It contains information and photos of the key features and facilities that you will encounter on your visit.

A visual guide to Staunton Harold Church