St Mary
Yelden, Bedfordshire
13th century Anglican church mainly in the decorated style.
The church of St Mary Magdalene, Melchbourne is a unique, Grade I listed church. It was originally built in the 12th century and was under the control of the Knights of St John, for whom Melchbourne was an important centre, until the dissolution of the monasteries in 1540. The church was rebuilt in the Georgian style in the 1770s when the north and south aisles were added, the roof raised and the interior plastered. Traces of the original church can still be seen on the exterior of the chancel.
Today the church remains an integral and valued part of the village. There are regular Sunday and midweek services and major festivals like Easter, Christmas, Harvest and Remembrance are all well supported.
