Old Warden St Leonard Church Jack1956 CC

St Leonard

St Leonard is a 12th century historic church containing unique carvings.

Old Warden, Bedfordshire

Opening times

Open daily

Address

Church Lane
Old Warden
Bedfordshire
SG18 9HD

A beautifully situated church overlooking the picturesque village and parkland of Old Warden with far reaching views and countryside walks radiating from the church car park. The church contains many treasures including a 14th century medieval stained glass window with the only known depiction of a Cistercian abbot known in England.

The plain medieval interior was furnished with rich oak carvings in the 1840's by local squire, Lord Robert Henley Ongley. A set of 22 carved oak panels with the personal emblems of Anne of Cleves, 4th wife of Henry VIII, have recently been dated to the mid 1550's. They are a rare survival of Tudor art and would have graced a closet of Anne of Cleves herself.

Many comment on the unique and peaceful atmosphere inside the church, a place very much for quiet contemplation and prayer.

  • Enchanting atmosphere

  • Fascinating churchyard

  • Glorious furnishings

  • Magnificent memorials

  • National heritage here

  • Spectacular stained glass

  • Wildlife haven

  • Car park at church

  • Dog friendly

  • Level access throughout

  • Level access to the main areas

  • Space to secure your bike

  • Walkers & cyclists welcome

  • Church of England

  • Repair Grant, £5,000, 2012

  • Our Repair Grants funded urgent repair work to help keep churches open.

  • Repair Grant, £20,000, 2023

  • Our Repair Grants funded urgent repair work to help keep churches open.

  • Wolfson Fabric Repair Grant, £10,000, 2023

  • Wolfson Fabric Repair Grants are awarded for urgent repair projects, based on our recommendation, to help keep churches open.

Contact information

Other nearby churches

St Mary the Virgin

Northill, Bedfordshire

Started around 1330, nestling in the pretty village of Northill, St Mary's is a delightful Bedfordshire church, well worth a visit.