Parish Church of St Mary and St Giles

The Parish Church of St Mary and St Giles is a Grade II* listed building in Stony Stratford with a church interior featuring slender fluted columns supporting the nave. The structure includes a ribbed vaulted ceiling and a 15th-century tower that remains a focal point of the town.

A major fire in 1742 destroyed most of the structure while the tower survived the flames. Architect Francis Hiorne oversaw the rebuilding, completing the reconstruction by 1777 and establishing the church's present appearance.

The merger of two parishes in 1968 resulted in the reconsecration of St Giles as the joint church of St Mary and St Giles, marking a significant change in local religious organization.

The building is readily accessible with parking available nearby, making visits straightforward and convenient for most people. Opening times accommodate regular visitors and those attending community gatherings held throughout the year.

The church sits along the historic Roman Watling Street, positioning it as a spiritual meeting point for passing travelers in medieval times. Two separate chapels were established by neighboring manors to serve this important function.

Location: Stony Stratford

Inception: 1776

Architects: Francis Hiorne

Website: http://parishstonystratfordcalverton.com/st-mary-st-giles-church-stony-stratford

GPS coordinates: 52.05700,-0.85355

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:08