St Peter's Church, Elford

St Peter's Church is a Gothic parish church featuring a stone tower topped with four pinnacles, painted and gilded roofing, and a nave floor laid with Minton tiles. The interior displays careful craftsmanship using quality materials that span different periods of construction and restoration.

The site has hosted religious buildings since Norman times, with the current tower constructed in 1598 and a major restoration carried out in 1870. This timeline shows how the church evolved from medieval foundations through early modern rebuilding to Victorian-era improvements.

The church holds medieval effigies and monuments of local nobility, particularly Sir Thomas Arderne's tomb, showing how funeral art reflected the social standing of families tied to the village. These stone carvings serve as visual records of who mattered in this rural community.

The church is open to visitors and allows time for quiet exploration of the interior layout and architectural details without rushing. Checking opening times in advance is wise, as access can be limited depending on services or events taking place.

A Flemish glass window from Herkenrode Abbey near Liege is set into the south aisle near the church entrance, representing a direct link with continental medieval workshops. This imported artwork shows how rural English villages maintained connections to European artistic centers.

Location: Elford

Inception: 1870

Architects: Anthony Salvin

Architectural style: Gothic architecture

Website: http://elfordvillage.co.uk/STPETERSCHURCH.aspx/#

GPS coordinates: 52.69283,-1.72741

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:05