The Tower
A Beacon of Faith and History in New Romney
St Nicholas' Church stands as a prominent and enduring landmark in New Romney, its roots deeply entwined with the town's history as one of the original Cinque Ports. It is the only surviving church of the five (three parish churches, the Priory and the Hospital) that existed in New Romney in the medieval period.
While it’s cherished as a place of worship, it is also a magnificent monument to centuries of local history on Romney Marsh, offering a glimpse into the past through its impressive architecture and central role in the community. Over time, the tower's sturdy, ancient walls have echoed with the sounds of history - the joyous peals of bells celebrating life's milestones, the sombre tolls marking moments of sorrow, and the regular call to worship for the community.
The Origins of St Nicholas' Church
St Nicholas' Church has its origins in the Norman era; while the site was established in 1086 by Bishop Odo (William The Conqueror’s brother-in-law), the church building itself was constructed in the late 11th or early 12th century. Much of the grand Norman structure, particularly the imposing central tower and parts of the nave, forms the core of the building we see today.
Its substantial scale reflects the importance and prosperity of New Romney during this period when the town was a significant port and ships coming into the harbour at New Romney would tie up at the walls of St Nicholas’ churchyard. The church was dedicated to St Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors, fitting for a community whose fortunes were closely tied to the sea, and it served as a spiritual focal point for the townspeople.
Beyond its religious function, the building was a focal point for local governance; by the 13th century, it became the regular venue for the administration of the Hundred and Liberty of New Romney.
The history of the church is inextricably linked to the shifting fortunes of New Romney. It stood witness to the Great Storm of 1287, a cataclysmic event that reshaped the coastline and choked the harbour, leaving New Romney landlocked and stripping the town of its maritime prominence. The storm left the church severely damaged, forcing a complete reconstruction of the eastern end. Today, the most striking evidence of this disaster is the church entrance, which sits a metre below street level - a lasting mark of the vast amount of debris deposited by the surge. Through its architectural scars and subsequent repairs, the building tells a story of a resilient community navigating centuries of change.
The Tower: A Magnificent Landmark
Standing approximately 9m square and 30m high, the tower has been a cornerstone of New Romney’s landscape and soundscape for centuries. Originally built around 1160, the tower’s three lower stages were later complemented by the addition of the upper stages, corner turrets and octagonal parapet circa 1200. Beyond its architecture, the tower is the heart of the community. Its peal of eight bells has marked services, celebrations, and historic milestones for generations. It has even served as a guardian; in 1451, a beacon was erected atop the tower to signal a call to arms in times of invasion.
Access to the ringing chamber, belfry and roof is via a stone spiral staircase. While its broach spire was removed in the 18th century, the roof now provides a stunning vantage point, offering visitors breathtaking views during tower open days.
The Great Storm of 1987 caused extensive damage to the roof and the top of the SW pinnacle had to be replaced. Much of the fundraising and repairs were done by Canon Peter Ford (vicar of St Nicholas 1964-1994) but the weakness in the tower meant that more extensive work was required. Over a period of six years, new stainless steel ties were fitted to replace their rusting predecessors, extensive areas of poor stonework replaced and the parapet and roof were largely rebuilt.
More details about St Nicholas Church can be found on the Romney Marsh Historic Churches Trust website.