St Mary's Church, Hartley Wintney

St. Mary's Church is a Gothic church building in Hartley Wintney, England, featuring flint walls, red brick transepts, and a central tower. The structure displays red-tiled roofs and medieval windows throughout, creating the typical appearance of an English parish church from multiple building periods.

Nuns from Wintney Priory founded the church in the 13th century as part of the priory's religious community. The building received major modifications during the 19th century when the red brick transepts and flint tower were added to expand its capacity.

Medieval wall paintings inside depict the stories of Saint Christopher and Saint George with the dragon, showing how faith was expressed through visual art in the church. These works help visitors understand what religious life looked like centuries ago.

The church is typically open on Sundays between Easter and mid-September, with volunteers from Friends of St Mary's available to answer questions. Visitors should check opening times in advance and be prepared for a quiet, contemplative environment inside.

Field Marshal Lord Alanbrooke, who served as Winston Churchill's principal military advisor during World War II, is buried in the churchyard. His presence here connects this rural parish church to some of the most crucial decisions made during the war.

Location: Hartley Wintney

Architectural style: English Gothic architecture

Website: http://visitchurches.org.uk/Ourchurches/Completelistofchurches/St-Marys-Church-Hartley-Wintney-Hampshire

GPS coordinates: 51.29680,-0.90020

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:20