Our Heritage

In 1870, the architect G.E.Street, commenting on the church in Burford, is quoted as saying;

"There is, in my opinion, no church in the whole diocese of Oxford which exceeds in beauty and architectural interest. It is not only that in scale it is grander than most parish churches, but also that in its architectural detail it is singularly rich and beautiful."

Welcome to Burford Church

Dating from around 1175AD, our beautiful church took more than 300 years to build. As it now stands, nestled in the heart of the Cotswold Countryside, it is a truly magnificent piece of English heritage.

The church itself is steeped in history and contains many fascinating artefacts.  A carved stone with three figures can be seen high on the wall of the south aisle.  It probably dates from the 12th century but could be even older: it is certainly the oldest carving in the church. The old clock mechanism of 1685 now stands in the north transept.  It still works!

In 1649 the church acted as prison for 340 disaffected soldiers rebelling against Cromwell.  After three days incarceration (during which, one of the captives carved his name on the lead rim of the font - this can still be seen) the three supposed ringleaders were shot in the churchyard, the others forced to watch from the church roof.  These soldiers were Levellers, a movement for political and social reform.  In recent years, the ideals of the Levellers, and the soldiers shot in Burford in 1649, are commemorated on 'Levellers Day', held on the nearest Saturday to 17th May, the day of execution.  The celebrations end with the laying of a wreath by the memorial plaque to the three soldiers, which was unveiled in 1979 by Tony Benn.

The 'Priory Murder' is recorded on a smooth, black ledger stone in the south transept and tells of a gruesome incident of deceit and murder in the grounds of the Priory.

There is much to see in Burford Church.  Follow our tour to find out more or, better still call in and see it for yourself.