"Visit the gruesome ossuary" Top 5 Page for this destination Hythe Things to Do Tip by St_Vincent

The ossuary in the crypt of St Leonard‘s Church is one of only two in England (the other being in Rothwell, Northants) and contains 2,000 human skulls, 8,000 thighbones, a few jaw bones and various other artefacts. The skull and thighbones were usually kept as it was believed that it would ensure physical resurrection.

The exact origin of the bones is unclear, legend has it that they are the remains of Saxon soldiers killed in a battle fought nearby that were dug up when the existing church was built in 1080. A more likely explanation is that they were dug up and stored in the Middle Ages when it was customary to re-use burial plots.

Open May-Sept, 10.30 to Midday & 2.30 to 4.00

Address: St. Leonards Church, Church Road
Directions: Walk up any of the narrow lanes leading up from the High St. to Church Road.
Website: http://www.stleonardschurch.com