From the top of the hill overlooking the Southern part of Stowting, the Church of St. Mary is clearly visible through the trees. However, once you reach the bottom of the hill, the Church seems to have disappeared completely! Because the road also winds down the hill, it makes you doubt whether you have missed a turning or not. The reality is that the local primary school was, at some time, probably Mid-Victorian, built on a strip of land between the Church and the road. Add to this the fact that the Church is also surrounded by mature trees, including some very fine yew trees, it is impossible to see it from the road.

I have seen older accounts of this Church being in a poor state of repair. However, thank goodness, there have obviously been some kind people contibuting to a restoration fund because today, from the exterior, the St. Mary's looks as well preserved as any in the area. Much of the Church, like many others in East Kent, is constructed of flint. The tower is a recent addition and was added in the 1840's when other extensive repairs were made to the Church.

I was not able to get into the Church the day that I visited but it does have some attractive 14th and 15th century glass. In the churchyard, which is neatly trimmed these days, there is a fine collection of headstones relating the the File family, a connection of my own.