St Mary's Church, Itchen Stoke

St Mary's Church is a Gothic Revival place of worship in a small village, featuring exterior walls of brown and grey rubble stone with limestone accents and a steeply pitched roof covered in purple and grey-green diamond-patterned slates. The structure demonstrates careful attention to stonework and decorative roofing that defines its appearance.

The building was constructed in 1866 and replaced two earlier churches at the site, with the first dating from the 13th century and the second becoming unsuitable due to persistent dampness problems. Architect Henry Conybeare directed the design of this new foundation.

The interior showcases intricate stained glass windows and cast iron decorative details on the pulpit, with the chancel floor laid out in a glazed tile labyrinth pattern that creates a contemplative mood.

The building sits near the B3047 road and is accessible only by climbing a steep grass slope, making sturdy footwear advisable. Visitors should be aware that there is no electricity or running water on the premises.

The exterior and window arrangement of the building draw directly from the Parisian Sainte-Chapelle, making it an unusual choice for a small English village. This French influence is visible in the Gothic details throughout.

Location: Itchen Stoke and Ovington

Inception: 1866

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Website: http://visitchurches.org.uk/findachurch/st-mary-itchen-stoke/?region=Hampshire

GPS coordinates: 51.08840,-1.20310

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:07