St Peter
Wootton Wawen, Warwickshire
St Peter’s Wootton Wawen, near Stratford upon Avon, is one of the oldest structures in England’s Midlands. Its tower dates back to the 900s, if not earlier.
The church's plan is very simple since nave and chancel are one. Much of it was in fact rebuilt in 1875, although many original features were kept and so the church feels old and friendly.
The 12th century font is particularly notable, as is the east window, dedicated to the Revd Samuel D'Oyley, Rector here for 67 years between 1792 and 1859.
The churchyard is an especially important site for nature conservation, with unimproved grassland that is full of wildflowers and grasses in spring and summer.
Unspoiled and unsprayed grassland such as this is very rare in the wider countryside now, and churchyards can be wonderful places for wildlife.
