St. Leonard’s, Ribbesford is found about a mile south of Bewdley on the 'switchback road' to Stourport and Worcester, which skirts the west bank of the Severn. The original church was small, early-Norman and occupied the site of the present north aisle. It grew from there and has been changed by successive generations. A storm in June 1877, demolished the chancel and the eastern part of the north aisle. The church was restored. although Ruskin thought the best option was to leave it as it was, as an inspirational ruin !
Above the West Door are three stained windows by William Morris from a design by Burne-Jones,and commemorating Lady Burne-Jones’ mother, Hannah Macdonald (d.1875) who was also the grandmother of two famous men—Earl (Stanley) Baldwin of Bewdley, whose father erected the window, and Rudyard Kipling.
The church is open during daylight hours.
Parking outside the church for a small number of cars.
The Worcestershire Way passes through the churchyard at Ribbesford.
3. Ribbesford, St. Leonard's
The Burne-Jones window comissioned by Alfred Baldwin and Edward Burne-Jones in memory of their mother-in-law, Hannah Macdonald.
Retrace your steps towards Stourport. Just as you come to the 30 mph limit, turn right, and Trail church no. 3- Areley Kings is set up, overlooking the hills above the Severn.
