Church of St. Mary the Virgin, Baldock

The Church of St. Mary the Virgin is a Grade I listed building with flint walls, stone dressings, and a lead-covered spire topped by a golden weathervane. Inside, a Norman octagonal font from the 12th century sits on a circular stem surrounded by eight stone shafts.

The original church was built around 1150 by the Knights Templar and later taken over by the Knights Hospitaller, who rebuilt it after 1330. This connection to both military orders shaped the building across several centuries.

The dedication to the Virgin Mary is reflected in the church's Norman design and the care given to its stonework and sacred objects. Visitors notice this in the fine details of the architecture and the reverent way the interior is arranged to focus on worship.

The church is easily accessible and has an open interior that welcomes visitors, making it straightforward to explore the space and its features. Visiting during morning hours works well since the light coming through the windows illuminates the interior details.

The church holds the Byrd Chalice, a silver vessel from the time of Elizabeth I that reportedly served King Charles I during his visit to Baldock. This object connects the church's story to visits by royal figures from different historical periods.

Location: North Hertfordshire

Inception: 12 century

GPS coordinates: 51.98970,-0.18979

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:04