St Mary's Church, Pitstone

St Mary's Church is a Gothic church building in Pitstone situated on a hillside beneath the Chiltern escarpment, featuring a tall tower, long nave, and chancel with carved capitals. The structure combines limestone and flint with an octagonal stair turret on the southeast side.

The church foundations date from 1250, though major rebuilding occurred in the 15th century. During that period the chancel was lengthened, a north vestry was added, and the nave arcades were reconstructed.

The church preserves elements from different periods inside, ranging from a Norman font to wall paintings from the 1700s. Visitors can see the craftsmanship of multiple generations expressed in the woodwork and floor tiles.

The church can only be visited by appointment, so advance booking is necessary. The interior has fixed pews seating around 100 people, electricity and restroom facilities, but no heating system.

The three bells housed in the church have been permanently stilled and no longer ring, remaining fixed in place. This absence of their sound is an uncommon feature that reflects a quieter period in the building's life.

Location: Pitstone

Inception: 13 century

Architectural style: English Gothic architecture

Website: http://visitchurches.org.uk/Ourchurches/Completelistofchurches/St-Marys-Church-Pitstone-Buckinghamshire

GPS coordinates: 51.82512,-0.63412

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:42