The oldest and most significant building in Cheddar is St Andrew’s Church.

You pass it as you leave Cheddar for Wells and the tower can be seen from many parts of the village. The present church was built in about 1400 on the site of previous churches. It was built for the people of Cheddar, not just as a place of Christian worship but also for meetings, social events and even sometimes as a market. It is a place where countless people have come to mark important events in their lives, to find a place of quiet and for some a place to meet with God. The final resting place for many Cheddar people is in the building or the churchyard.

The interior has been adapted over the years to meet the needs of succeeding generations. In order to be faithful to the original purpose, as a resource for the whole village, further adaptations are necessary for today and for the future. The aim is to make the building more suitable for concerts and other events. A low platform at the front of the church would make space for choirs, musical instruments and children’s presentations. A toilet and limited catering facilities are essential.

After much consultation plans have now been approved for these modifications which would respect the integrity of this listed building. It would of course remain a place of Christian Worship but when the work is completed it could also be used much more extensively for village events.

If you would like to know more, there are plans in the church or please email [email protected]

The heating system has already been improved and further monies are being raised but there is still a long way to go. Financial help from anyone interested would be much appreciated, so that this significant building and its people can continue to serve the village.