The Church, as seen today, dates only from 1896 but worship has taken place here for many centuries before that. In very early times, the site may have been used as a defensive position commanding the junction of two rivers, the Twiss and the Doe, but it's later choice as a site for a church was unfortunate. The bank above the river was formed towards the end of the Ice Age and consists of little more than a pile of boulders and sediment unsuited to supporting the weight of a building, and likely to be undercut by the river at it's base.

The most precious monument in the Church is the 12th Century Font. Carved with scenes from the story of the Virgin mary, it depicts the Three Kings bringing gifts to the child in Mary's arms. 'Lost' for a period of time it was restored to it's current place in 1858 under direction of Thomas L. Parker, Lord of the Manor.

Another of the Church's prize possessions is the 'Vinegar Bible'. one of the few remaining copies printed in 1717 containing the page heading 'Parable of the Vinegar' - a misprint for 'Vineyard'.

To consolidate the entire history of St Mary's onto the site would take many more pages. What you have read is only the tip of the iceberg and there is so much to see and learn. If you are planning to visit, a guide book full of information is available for you to read at your leisure as you walk around the church.