Derived from the Latin word Narvis, meaning “ship.” Look upwards and you will see the roof resembles the ribs of an upturned boat. The eastern end of the nave is the oldest part of the building. In mediaeval times the nave was not consecrated and formed the hub of the community. It was the only place where the parishioners were allowed to hear the services. Services were always held in the consecrated area hidden behind the roodscreen.
The Nave was a noisy place. Goods were bought and sold, the lord of the manor had the right to store arms and lodge his men at arms. Disputes were heard and judgements made. Beer could be bought here… but only beer brewed by the monks at Spalding Priory! Today, the nave is also used for meetings, coffee mornings, concerts, seasonal fayres, and our popular annual flower festival.
