The castle car park now has a charge. However there s also a layby for several cars on the A49 about 200m from the church N52 25.980 w 2 49.77.
Stokesay church was built around 1150 as a chapel to the castle by the Say family who had come over with William the Conqueror. The Royalists took refuge in the church (with their horses) in 1646 but were forced out by the Parliamentarians who had captured the castle. Much of the church was destroyed in the battle but was later rebuilt.
The church is a rare example of religious construction during the Roundhead Commonwealth period. It is well worth a visit to see the interior of the church which is open at the same times as the castle. Entry is via an oak door with a massive lock and key dating from 1654.
Within the graveyard there is a magnificent sandstone war memorial of “Old Bill” (N 52 25.849; W 2 49.908). Look out for the dolphin on the soldier’s back which according to Greek mythology carries heroes after their death. What is unusual is that along with respecting the fallen soldiers there is also a list of those who “happily returned”.
Stokesay castle is next to the church and opening times are on the English Heritage site. http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/server/show/ConProperty.351
Lookout for the OS Benchmark (Cut Mark) beside the small tower door registering a height of approximately 121.4049 m at N52 25.841 W2 49.878. A sincere thank you to the Stokesay Parish Church Council for their kind cooperation and enthusiasm in placing this cache.