St. Mary, Alton Barnes

Introduction

St. Mary’s Church is the Spiritual Centre of the villages of Alton Barnes and Alton Priors. The atmosphere of peace and tranquillity in St. Mary’s Church is often remarked upon by our many visitors.

Two services are held each month on the first and third Sundays. Our small congregation is al;ways welcoming to newcomers and visitors. We are fortunate to hold some services in All Saints Church, Alton Priors, (Churches Conservation Trust) but only during July andAugust. The PCC is responsible for both Churchyards.

Our Worship throughout the last year, (the pandemic permitting) included, Festival Services, Outdoor Harvest Thanksgiving, Songs of Praise, Remembrance Service, and a Carol Concert to raise much needed funds for St. Mary’s church.

Getting here

Facilities

Parking:

On-street

Toilets:

None

Hearing loop:

No

Projector:

No

History of the building

The parish was mentioned in the Domesday Book and its name derives from the Saxon “village by the stream”. The parish contains a long barrow at Adam’s Grave, a section of the Wansdyke and a famous white horse, cut in 1812.

The tiny church is Saxon and was much rebuilt in the 18th century. There is a fine 16th century tie-beamed and windbraced roof, a Georgian gallery and some interesting monuments. There are several stained glass panels, including work of Laurence Whistler.

The canalside hamlet of Honeystreet grew up round the timber and boat yards in the 19th century.

Giving

St. Mary's Church members and visitors can give to the work of the church in various ways:

Cash

Cash can still be given at a service if you wish.

This month at St. Mary's

November 2024