St Mary's Church, Hardmead

St Mary's Church is a medieval place of worship in Hardmead featuring a stone west tower, clerestory windows, a chancel, and side aisles with lead roofs. Throughout the building, intricate stone carvings decorate the walls and architectural elements.

The west tower began in the 13th century, with the chancel added later and the clerestory and upper tower section completed in the 15th century. These additions show how the building grew to serve the community across the medieval period.

The church contains monuments to the Catesby family, a prominent local lineage, with wall tablets and brass memorials visible in the interior that remind visitors of their historical standing.

The building is cared for by the Friends of Friendless Churches through a long-term lease that began in 1982, ensuring ongoing maintenance. Visitors should expect variable opening times and should check ahead for access arrangements.

The church contains a ring of three bells, with the oldest casting from 1399 and continuing to ring for centuries. An organ built in 1837 by J.W. Walker of London remains in place, representing the musical craftsmanship of that era.

Location: Hardmead

Inception: 15 century

Website: http://friendsoffriendlesschurches.org.uk/CMSMS/index.php?page=hardmead

GPS coordinates: 52.11960,-0.63580

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:47