Church Building

Historical Development

Early History:

The first church was built in the late 7th century by monks from Brixworth. This wooden church, and a later Saxon stone church, were both destroyed by Danes. Some Saxon stones were reused in the current building, and a fragment of a Saxon cross is displayed inside.

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Norman Period

After the Norman conquest, a stone church was built, forming the basis for the current structure. Some Norman features remain visible, such as parts of the nave and a window arch.

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Medieval Additions

In the late 12th and early 13th centuries, aisles were added and the church was enlarged. The tower dates from the early 14th century (Decorated style), while the clerestory, aisles, and chancel were rebuilt in the late 15th and early 16th centuries (Perpendicular style).

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Victorian Restoration

The church underwent significant restoration in the 19th century, notably in 1851 and again in 1884-89, when much of the stonework was renewed and the interior refurnished.

 

Architectural Features

The church is built of ironstone, lias, and limestone, with a lead roof and a west tower. The nave, aisles, and chancel show a mix of Norman, Decorated, and Perpendicular Gothic styles.

Notable features include:

• Impressive arcades in Perpendicular style.

• Embattled stone cornices with decorative heads and angels.

• A hammer-beam roof with medieval timbers.

• Remnants of a rood loft and a Saxon cross-shaft.

• 18th-century font and communion rail.

• Stained glass windows from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

• A peal of twelve bells, rare in England.

 

Monuments and Memorials

Inside, there are memorials and ledger slabs commemorating local figures from the 17th to 19th centuries. The churchyard contains several listed chest tombs from the 18th century, commemorating the Worley, Marsh, and Lichfield families, among others. These tombs are Grade II listed and are noted for their historical value and decorative features.

 

Other Noteworthy Details

The church stands in a prominent position overlooking the village and surrounding countryside. The remains of a possible anchorite’s cell are visible outside, and the churchyard contains several 18th-century headstones.  The spire was removed in 1702, possibly after storm damage

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For a more detailed church history and architectural description click here