Project Case Studies
STONEWORK REPAIRS & RESTORATION AT IVYCHURCH
The Romney Marsh Historic Churches Trust supported a major project to restore masonry at St. George’s, Ivychurch.
Restoration photos by Celia Heritage and architect George Esdaile
BEFORE
DURING
Background
By far the largest project funded by the Romney Marsh Historic Churches Trust in recent years has been the major programme of repair and restoration at St George’s Church, Ivychurch - a landmark church whose scale and craftsmanship reflect its long and remarkable history.
For several months the building was wrapped in scaffolding while extensive masonry and stonework repairs were carried out. This was not cosmetic work, but essential conservation to keep the church weatherproof for decades to come. The project involved the South Aisle, porch and part of the tower; completing the final element of the 2020 quinquennial (five-year) inspection.
Part of the project involved replacement of the string course, which can be seen clearly from the ground. Where original stone could be retained, intervention was kept to an absolute minimum; where decay was too severe, new stone was carefully introduced so that, over time, old and new will blend seamlessly - preserving historical continuity while securing the structure’s future.
Intervention
Specialist masons from Universal Stone in Essex worked with a sensitive mix of Kentish ragstone and Caen stone, carefully matching historic materials and detailing. Beautifully carved hood moulds were replaced above the main doorway, doors were re-treated, and significant areas of stonework repaired.
Among the work most visible to visitors, is replacement of the string course around the church. This is a horizontal band of stone that runs around a church and plays an important practical as well as visual role. Its slight projection helps throw rainwater clear of the wall, protecting the masonry below from long-term weathering and damp. In large medieval buildings it also helps to tie the structure together and often marks changes in construction or internal levels. Visually, the string course breaks up long expanses of walling and adds decorative detail, frequently showcasing the skill of masons. When a string course becomes badly worn, water can run directly down the face of the wall, accelerating decay - making its careful repair or replacement a vital part of keeping a church weatherproof for generations to come.
Further issues found
Once the scaffolding was in place, previously hidden issues came to light: large cavities, deep cracks, and serious fissures in the buttresses. These great stone supports are vital to a church of this size: they counteract the outward thrust of the roof and walls, stabilising the building and preventing long-term structural movement. When the scaffolding went up, it revealed that two buttresses were badly compromised - damage that had not been visible from ground level. Their careful repair was essential to the long-term survival of the church.
Alongside this, the Trust is funding the restoration of the church’s 100-year-old clock, ensuring it continues to mark time over the Marsh.
Further work addressed water ingress in the south aisle, where historic flashing problems had allowed moisture to penetrate the walls. The clerestory was treated with a special paint which also helped seal fine cracks and improve weatherproofing.
Care for these ancient buildings
A vital part of this story is the people who care for these buildings. The Trust’s visit to the site was guided by Celia Heritage - RMHCT Trustee, historian, and a member of the PCC at St George’s. Volunteers like Celia are essential to keeping Marsh churches in good order: giving time, expertise and local knowledge, they act as the eyes, ears and advocates for these buildings day in, day out. Without such commitment on the ground, major conservation projects simply could not happen.
Recent improvements also include the installation of a new internet mast on the tower, providing Wi-Fi to the church. This enhances access to audio tours and makes on-site donations easier for visitors - another small but significant step in keeping the church relevant and welcoming.
Throughout its long history, St. George’s has endured years of intermittent neglect due to its great size, small population, and lack of funding - prior to the establishment to the Trust. Praised by Sir Reginald Blomfield as one of the finest complete examples of 14th-century craftsmanship, it stands today because of sustained care and generosity. New challenges remain inside the church, including signs of damp and mould, which pose a risk to the artefacts and features adorning the walls - powerful reminders that conservation is never finished. Medieval graffiti and small sections of faded medieval murals can be seen on the walls in this church.
This major restoration would not have been possible without the support of RMHCT members, donors, legacy gifts and volunteers. Their generosity is holding this great church together.
In 2026, St. George’s will host special events to celebrate the completion of both the masonry works and the clock restoration - a fitting moment to reflect on what collective support can achieve, and an invitation to help safeguard this extraordinary Marsh landmark for generations to come. Find out more on their Facebook profile.
The front cover from a 1910 restoration leaflet.
Today you can be part of a centuries-old story to protect this remarkable ancient church.
Your support is needed
Further support is still needed. Further works have been identified during the latest quinquennial inspection in January 2026.
Now clearly visible inside the church are damp walls, which if left untreated could pose a risk to features and historic artefacts inside the church.
A broadband device has recently been installed on the tower, enabling an on-site donation system and easier access to our free guide app.
FURTHER RESTORATION PHOTOS
Much of the work was high up on the building.
From the ground, the most striking difference is the string course around the building, restoration of the entrance and re-treatment of the door.
More about St George’s
IVYCHURCH
3D Virtual Tour preview, showing restored western window and fragments of original stone.
More photos of St George’s, Ivychurch
Audio Guide
Discover more about St George’s Church at Ivychurch with our new self-guided tour. Scan the QR code on your mobile device or click the tour button to view online.
Listen online
An audio-only version of the tour is also available to listen to here.