The Church
The church of St Mary the Virgin was built in the pre-Conquest period. It comprises a nave of three bays, chancel, south aisle and south porch. The west tower, with its weather-boarded bellcote, is of wood, supported on oak pillars within the church. In the nave there are some high-backed pews on which the candlesticks remain and with the original hinges on the doors.
The first document mention was in 1175 when Emma Luvel gave the Church of Peri to Oseney Abbey, it was consecrated in 1273 by the Bishop of Lincoln.
The church contains some very old and important glass dating from 1220 and also a Saxon arch in the high Chancel.
The parish church of St Mary the Virgin at Waterperry is widely considered to be an architectural gem.
Nestling close to the manor house, the plain exterior – including an unusual wooden tower – belies the beauty and history inside – in fact few small churches can boast such a wonderful collection of ancient glass, brasses and monumental plaques.
Some of the many highlights include:-
- The original Saxon chancel arch
- Rare 12th Century floor tiles
- Three lancet windows containing glass dating back to 1220
- Jacobean memorial wall tablet
- 15th century brasses depicting ruling families of old
There’s no charge for looking around our beautiful church, but donations towards the repair, restoration and upkeep would be very welcome.
