St Leonard`s Church, Seaford, Sussex Stock Photo

Although Seaford is not mentioned in the 1086 Domesday Book, St Leonard`s church is thought to have started soon after the Norman conquest of 1066 probably by 1090. Seaford was a prosperous port in the 13th century exporting wool and corn and importing wines. However the Black Death, French raids during the Hundred Years war and piracy saw the town reduced to poverty and many of its buildings gutted by fire. All that remained of the church was the nave and the north aisle. However by the 15th century a 68 foot tower was added with four levels to house the clock and the bell chamber.