St Mary the Virgin
Fawley, Buckinghamshire
The parish church of St Mary's lies at the centre of the village where it has stood on its present site for over eight hundred years.
St Mary the Virgin is the centrepiece of Turville village, and sits within a cluster of red brick and flint houses dating back to the 17th century and at the foot of a ring of hills, at the top of which is the windmill featured in the film “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang”. However, the church is best known for being “St Barnabus” in the television series “The Vicar of Dibley”. As a result, its significance extends well beyond the village; it is often referred to as a quintessential example of the English country parish church.
The date of the church’s founding is unknown, but it was probably around 796 when the Abbey of St Albans acquired the lands of Turville. The current building dates from the 12th century, with several revisions over the centuries. Medieval fabric survives alongside 18th century additions and major 19th century restoration works by the well-known architect GE Street.
Notable features are the 14th century tower with six bells, and a John Piper window installed in 1972. The most recent restoration was in 2024 which has included re-rendering of the outside of chancel in lime mortar, the replacement of the lead tower roof, and a significant refurbishment of the porch. The result is a simple and tranquil building which has an uplifting and enduring impact on many of our numerous visitors.