St Michael
Wilsford, Wiltshire
Situated by the Avon, the church has a Norman tower but the rest is by TH Wyatt in 1851.
Its beauty and architectural/historic interests attracts many visitors.
St Andrew’s sits in the northern part of the small village of Great Durnford, close to the River Avon, next door to the Manor and Estate of Great Durnford, and off any major thoroughfares, all within a Conservation Area. This makes for a peaceful and contemplative environment in which to enjoy this small but exquisite Norman church.
The nave of St Andrew’s church was built circa 1090 by the son of one of William the Conqueror’s foremost knights. The chancel was added about 1200, and the tower is 13th century. North and south door arches are Norman, and the south porch dates from the 15th century. The font is Norman, the pulpit dates from 1619, the lectern from the 17th century and the north and south doors date from 1677 and 1714. Some of the old oak pews date from the 15th century.
Physically off the beaten track, the church largely survived the ravages of the Reformation and the Civil War, as well as any marked later Victorian embellishments.
The church remains in regular use for worship, baptisms, weddings and funerals. On the south side of the church is the large graveyard set to grass and old yews, with other trees and shrubs.
St Andrew’s beauty and architectural/historic interest attracts many visitors and we bid you a warm invitation to join them.
Following your visit, those seeking more worldly refreshment will find it at the Black Horse pub, a short stroll down the road from the church, past our village cricket pitch.
