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."

Dating back to 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 fascinating artefacts from times gone by. The mysteriously carved 'Epona Stone' can be found high on the south wall. It is thought to date back as far as the 12th Century and is probably the oldest artefact in the church. The old turret clock dates back to 1685; it actually houses the original mechanism and is still working today!

In 1649, the church was used as a prison for The Levellers - a group of radicals rebelling against Cromwell, who at that time, was intending to fight in Ireland. Of the 340 prisoners incarcerated there, three considered to be the ringleaders were shot in the churchyard. Those who survived were forced to join Cromwell in Ireland. During their imprisonment, one of the captives carved his name in the rim of the Font - something which can still be seen to this day!

Because of the political aspect of the Levellers rebellion, Mr Anthony Wedgewood Benn had a memorial plaque placed on the wall, and each year there is a day of celebration - the Saturday nearest the 17th of May.

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.

Burford Church holds numerous fascinating facts both within and outside its walls. Follow our Tour to find out more about this amazing piece of history, or better still, call in and see it for yourself.