Church of St Mary the Virgin, Great Bedwyn

The Church of St Mary the Virgin is a medieval parish church with walls combining flint and limestone in its construction. The interior displays arcades built in the 12th century and a tower added in the 14th century, showing how the building grew over time.

Saxon remains lie beneath the current church building, dating back to the 10th century and showing this as an ancient place of worship. The bishop of Winchester purchased land here in 905, establishing church control long before the present structure was built.

The chancel houses a memorial to Sir John Seymour, whose daughter Jane Seymour became queen through marriage to Henry VIII. This connection makes the place a stopping point along England's royal story.

The church functions as an active place of worship with regular services held throughout the year. Visitors should check opening times and dress respectfully, as it remains a working religious space protected as a Grade I listed building.

A Greek inscription carved on the south wall buttress delivers a message urging Christian warriors to maintain their faith. This unusual text reveals a personal connection between the church and religious conviction from an earlier era.

Location: Great Bedwyn

Website: http://savernaketeam.org.uk/church/st-marys-great-bedwyn

GPS coordinates: 51.37690,-1.60260

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:06