St Thomas' Church, East Shefford

St Thomas' Church is a Norman building constructed with flint and stone walls topped by tiled roofs, combining multiple sections built at different periods. The structure includes a main nave area, a brick south porch, a chancel section, and a south chapel, all forming one cohesive building.

Construction of the church started around 1150 and continued through successive centuries with major additions. The chancel was extended in the 13th century, and a south chapel was added much later in the 16th century, reflecting the building's gradual growth.

The church holds family monuments from the Fettiplace family, including an alabaster memorial from 1447 and a marble tomb from 1524 with brass effigies. These stones tell the story of wealthy families who remained connected to this place across centuries.

Entry to the church is through a pedestrian gate that leads down a gravel lane, giving a pleasant approach to the building. A key is available from an honesty box located by the gate, allowing visitors to explore the interior at their own pace.

Decorative wall paintings were uncovered during repair work in the 1970s, hidden beneath later layers of the walls. The oldest of these paintings date from approximately 1100, revealing a hidden chapter of the building's past.

Location: Great Shefford

Inception: 12 century

Architectural style: Norman architecture

Website: http://visitchurches.org.uk/findachurch/st-thomas-east-shefford/?region=Berkshire

GPS coordinates: 51.46980,-1.43910

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:45