Darmsden is one of those pretty villages in the rolling, wooded hills above the Gipping valley. Unlike the others, it is a private estate village. Technically, there are no public roads leading to it, but the estate road from the B1113 near Needham Market, (see Waypoint below), despite signs to the contrary, does allow vehicle access to the church, with its splendid views across to Shrublands Hall on the far side of the valley. There are also many footpaths and the good circular walks are really the best way to appreciate the surrounding area.
St. Andrew is a Victorian church in the transitional style, the work of church architect Herbert Green. More of his work can be seen at nearby Willisham.
St Andrew was declared redundant by the Anglican diocese in the 1970s, and, like most 19th century churches at that time, was not considered worth saving. It was offered for sale, under the condition that if an alternative use could not be found within three years, it would be demolished.
However, this little community was very determined. They got together and formed the Friends of St Andrew; they raised a large sum of money, and bought the building off of the Church of England.
They still maintain at least one service a month, about as many as some CofE churches in less remote locations, and the services are interdenominational. The other thing that makes this church different from most is that it is always open, 24 hours a day, and pilgrims and strangers are always welcome.
The above text contains excerpts from Simon Knott's excellent website www.suffolkchurches.co.uk , with grateful thanks.
If anyone would like to expand this Church Micro numbered series please do. Please contact sadexploration via www.geocaching.com so that he can keep track of the church numbers and names to avoid duplication.