Hidden away in the quiet Sussex countryside, the Church of the Good Shepherd is one of the smallest and most charming churches in England. Tucked into the folds of the South Downs, it’s a peaceful, understated location that rewards those willing to wander just a little off the main path.
History & Facts
Believed to date back to around the 12th century, the church in the tiny hamlet of Lullington has a long and quiet history.
A few things that make it special:
- Often cited as one of the smallest churches in England
- Built from local flint and stone, blending beautifully into the landscape
- Traditionally able to hold only a handful of people at a time
- Still consecrated and occasionally used for services
Its simplicity is what makes it so striking—there’s no grandeur here, just history, texture, and atmosphere.
Access & Parking
There are a couple of options depending on how much you want to walk:
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Nearest parking is a very rough, free pull-in just down the road from the Long Man of Wilmington
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From there, it’s a short walk across the field to the church
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Alternatively:
- Park in Alfriston and enjoy a longer, more scenic walk through the South Downs to reach the church.
The Walk
- Short route: 10 minutes, flat and easy across open fields
- Longer route from Alfriston: more of a proper countryside walk, ideal if you want to make a morning or afternoon of it
It’s accessible on foot and also a great little stop if you’re out cycling the South Downs.
📸 Photography Tips
This is one of those locations that works in almost any condition:
- Misty mornings – adds mood and isolates the church beautifully
- Bright summer afternoons – brings out the textures in the flint walls and surrounding greens
- Minimal compositions – the church works perfectly as a lone subject in the landscape
- Seasonal interest – wildflowers, long grass, or frosty fields all change the feel
🕯️ Shooting Inside
- The church can be accessed during the day, but
- Doors are locked overnight, so plan accordingly if you want interior shots
Inside, it’s simple and atmospheric—perfect for quiet, reflective images.
🚲 Accessibility
- Easy walk from nearby parking
- Cycle-friendly location
- Minimal elevation, suitable for most abilities
📍 Nearby Locations
If you’re exploring the area, there are some fantastic additions close by:
⛪ St Mary and St Peter's Church
A beautiful historic church home to an ancient yew tree estimated at around 1,000 years old—full of character and well worth a visit.
📸 Long Man of Wilmington
Just down the road, this iconic chalk figure makes a perfect pairing for a varied photography day.
Final Thoughts
The Church of the Good Shepherd is easy to miss—but that’s part of its charm. Quiet, small, and surrounded by open countryside, it’s a place that encourages you to slow down and really see what’s in front of you.
For photographers, it’s a gift: simple compositions, ever-changing light, and a sense of stillness that’s getting harder to find.
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