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A new guide to the Church for 2026: available to buy in the Church from September 6th and shortly on-line
New for 2026!
There have been several fine histories of Whittlesford Church. This is different. Sir John Coles guides you on a walk through the church building and church yard, pausing at points of special interest. Each of the 35 pages has stunning photos (by Whittlesford residents, Sarah Airriess and Martyn Postle).
The history of the church, from the 12th to the 21st century, gets a light touch. And we learn about the graffiti, our famous alabaster fragments, a sect called the "Family of Love", our mysterious Sheela-Na-Gig and the 32 Commonwealth War graves.
Ideal as a present, it is available for £7.50.
FOREWORD.
It is a real pleasure, as Vicar of this parish, to welcome you to our beautiful and ancient church. Whether you come as a worshipper, visitor, pilgrim, historian or simply someone looking for a quiet place to pause and reflect, you are very welcome. For over a thousand years, this church has stood at the heart of Whittlesford, sharing in the life of the village and its people.
Across the centuries, countless individuals and families have gathered here to pray and to worship, to celebrate life's joys, to grieve its losses, and to seek God's presence in times of hope, uncertainty and sorrow. Their stories, prayers and faith have helped shape the church you see before you.
St Mary and St Andrew is very much a church for today. It is an active parish church, committed to serving the local community and to offering a welcome to all who come through its doors.
As you walk through the church and churchyard, I encourage you to take your time: to follow your curiosity, to linger where something catches your attention, to sit quietly if you wish, or simply to wander and wonder. This is a place where many have paused, prayed and hoped before you. May your visit be enriching, and may you know yourself to be truly welcome here.
Reverend Olivia Coles.
The guide starts......
Placed at the northern edge of the village, the church looks out on a churchyard adorned with handsome trees and plants, and beyond that to green fields. The setting is rural, the atmosphere tranquil and serene. The church itself is full of interest and not a few surprises. It is listed as Grade One by Historic England, meaning that it is regarded as a site of 'exceptional national, architectural or historic importance'. The art historian, Sir Nicholaus Pevsner, who in the last century published 46 volumes on The Buildings of England, begins his account of Whittlesford with the words 'a rewarding church'. A recent survey of Cambridgeshire churches describes it as one of the more exciting churches in the county with a lot of food for the imagination. Prepare to be interested, intrigued, delighted and surprised........... Read further
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