Church of St. Andrew, Dover

Nestled behind the Buckland Mill Village site in Dover, the Church of Saint Andrew is a cherished ancient parish church with a rich history and strong community ties. The site, mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, has been a place of Christian worship for centuries, with the present church structure dating back to 1180. The iconic Buckland Yew, estimated to be at least 1,700 years old, further underscores the enduring spiritual significance of this location.

The church, dedicated to Saint Andrew the Apostle, features an East window depicting the saint kneeling beside Jesus, holding the Church of Buckland in his hands. In addition to the main dedication, two chapels honor other figures of faith: the North chapel is dedicated to Saint Catherine of Alexandria, known for her martyrdom on the Catherine Wheel, while the South chapel is devoted to Thomas de la Hale, a local monk martyred in 1295 during a raid on the Priory of Saint Martin. The chapel of Thomas de la Hale also reserves the Blessed Sacrament, maintaining its sacred role within the church.

Saint Andrew's serves as a vibrant hub for the Buckland community, hosting a variety of worship styles in the Catholic tradition, both formal and informal. Its location, accessible via a narrow road off the Buckland Bridge on London Road, provides a tranquil retreat despite being close to the development of Buckland Mill Village. This redevelopment of the former Buckland Paper Mill site blends residential, commercial, and community spaces, further embedding the church as a focal point for the area's evolving community.

The churchyard, a peaceful haven amidst the surrounding development, invites visitors to pause and reflect in the shadow of its ancient yew and storied past. With its long-standing history, enduring legacy, and welcoming atmosphere, the Church of Saint Andrew remains a testament to the spiritual and cultural fabric of Dover.