Work has now started to transform St Peter’s Church in Sandwich into a tourist attraction.

The work, which began on Monday, is expected to last around four months and will focus on the tower of the church, making it accessible by building new stairs for tours and access to a viewing platform.

At the moment, the tower has limited stairs which leads to steep ladders, meaning it can not be opened to the public.

Anne Evans, chairman of the Friends of St Peter’s, said: “The Friends of St Peter’s have had a vision for many years of the future of the church, and we’re very excited that our dreams are coming true. The work on the church will make it a real asset for the town.”

It is hoped the project will bring economic benefits to the community, supporting employment and generating revenue, as well as attracting people and businesses to the area.

Views from the top of the tower across Sandwich will also help visitors appreciate what has been described as the “most complete medieval town in England”.

"We’re really excited that work is finally about to begin on our project at St Peter’s in Sandwich. We think that the new tower access for visitors will really put the church on the map." - Mr Aiers

The Grade I listed church in Market Street has been under the care of the Churches Conservation Trust (CCT) since 1974.

The fascinating stories of the ancient church will be told with new interpretations, such as links to the mercantile history of Sandwich, and notable figures such as 18th-century political activist Thomas Paine – who was married there.

There will also be development work to turn the church into a vibrant venue for a programme of activities.

The project will give St Peter’s a sustainable future and prolong its life as a heritage asset.

It already welcomes thousands of visitors per year and it is hoped the transformation, funded by the government’s Department for Culture, Media and Sport, will boost visitor numbers even further.

Peter Aiers, CCT director, South East, said: “We’re really excited that work is finally about to begin on our project at St Peter’s in Sandwich. We think that the new tower access for visitors will really put the church on the map.

“This building will become a popular tourist attraction in it’s own right, helping the CCT to look after St Peter’s and 347 other churches in our care, as well as providing another great attraction for beautiful Sandwich.”

It will remain open as usual during the works and there will also be a series of open days and behind the scenes events for members of the public.

For more information visit the website at www.visitchurches.org.uk

Further details can also be obtained via email at southeast@thecct.org.uk or call 01223 324442.