St Bene't, Cambridge

St Bene't is Cambridgeshire's oldest church building, featuring substantial Anglo-Saxon elements.

The church (St Bene't is short for Benedict) was founded some time in the early 11th century, when Cambridge was developing as an important local market town. The exact date is not known, but there is good evidence for a date around 1020. The original church was the same length and half the width of the current church. The most substantial remains are those of the tower, the corners featuring characteristically Anglo-Saxon long-and-short work, the original bell openings with a crude, paired round arches. The corners of the nave, and south chancel wall, are also original. 

But it is inside that the chief glory of this church resides: the tower arch into the nave. This is a robust piece, with striking if oddly assembled architectural forms, such as the pillars of the arch flanking jambs of long-and-short work, rather than supporting capitals beneath the foot of the arch. Instead, each side of the arch rests on impressive carved beasts, possibly lions. As is the case elsewhere, it shows evidence of Anglo-Saxon masons attempting to adopt Romanesque forms, but with limited understanding. Nevertheless, it makes a bold statement and is a valuable survivor.

The rest of the church reflects changes made in the 13th-15th Centuries, including 13th Century aisles, and a 15th Century clerestory (dated 1452). The sedilia and double piscina date front he 14th century, with handsome ogee arches. The aisles were rebuilt in the 19th Century, along with the north and east nave walls. Apart from the tower arch, the whole interior is whitewashed, giving the church a surprisingly bright feel for somewhere so ancient.

The church has an active congregation, with provision for children, reading groups, study days and a 20s & 30s Group. There are daily Eucharists (two on Sundays) and daily Evening Prayer.

St Bene’t’s Church, Bene’t Street, Cambridge CB2 3PT