Mass/Scratch dials such as this one at Ecton, Northamptonshire, are still a relatively common feature built into the south wall of a church. The majority are medieval in origin. They were used to inform local villagers of the time of day, and of the time of a particular Mass. A gnomon, or stick, was inserted into the hole and the shadow cast by the sun would indicate the time of day, in exactly the same way that a sundial operates. Church clocks at this point were still a long way off.

mass dial scratch dial sundial churches medieval ancient buildings Ancient England

This image is available to purchase and is part of our Ancient England Stock Photos Collection.