We had a wonderful first champing experience. We had everything we needed, included a dry toilet and hand sanitisers of course. Plenty of water, tea and coffee.

The beds were set out for us. We put our inflatable matress on top, and it was very comfy. I got a little cold during the night – my own fault as previous champers had warned me to take more blankets than I thought I would need! Husband was fine though.

The church takes in a whole different atmosphere at night, lit up by the ‘candles’. I did wonder if we’d hear any strange sounds(!) I needn’t have worried though as we literally didn’t hear a pin drop! It was so peaceful.

I never ever thought I’d have the chance to stay overnight in any church, never mind such a historical and interesting one. It was amazing to watch the sun set in the churchyard all by ourselves, and to see the morning light hit the top East window before any other.

We had no problem parking at the hotel next door, and went to the hotel’s Woodland Cafe (a tepee with an open fire !) next morning for a lovely cooked breakfast.

There is plenty to see nearby too including a Roman fort just down the road ( its run by English Heritage and you need to pre-book). We also visited other churches and ruined abbeys whilst we were in the area.

We couldn’t find the current visitors book to sign, but enjoyed reading the comments made in the previous ones dating back 35 years!

We are already planning our next champ 😃