Swinbrook Church St Mary
A medieval Cotswolds church famed for its 17th-century Fettiplace monuments and the resting place of the Mitford sisters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Idyllic Cotswolds scenery
Swinbrook Church St Mary
Best Time
Idyllic Cotswolds scenery
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A medieval Cotswolds church famed for its 17th-century Fettiplace monuments and the resting place of the Mitford sisters.
"Relatively ordinary from the outside, but full of interest inside: two AMAZING triple-decker funerary monuments."
🚗 Narrow Village Roads
Be prepared for narrow village roads leading to Swinbrook. Drive cautiously and be mindful of other vehicles.
🚶♀️ Explore the Village
Combine your church visit with a stroll through the picturesque Swinbrook village and its beautiful surroundings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mitford Sisters' Graves
Churchyard
Visit the resting place of Nancy, Unity, Diana, and Pamela Mitford, four iconic sisters of the 20th century.
Fettiplace Family Monuments
Interior
Admire the stunning 17th-century triple-decker funerary monuments of the wealthy Fettiplace family.
Medieval Stained Glass & Misericords
Interior
Discover charming medieval stained glass and intricately carved misericords, possibly from Burford Priory.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover the Mitford Sisters' Resting Place
Marvel at the Fettiplace Monuments
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Narrow Village Roads
Be prepared for narrow village roads leading to Swinbrook. Drive cautiously and be mindful of other vehicles.
🚶♀️ Explore the Village
Combine your church visit with a stroll through the picturesque Swinbrook village and its beautiful surroundings.
📸 Photography Opportunities
Capture the unique Fettiplace monuments and the serene churchyard, especially the Mitford sisters' graves.
🕰️ Check Opening Times
While generally open, it's wise to confirm any specific visiting hours or event closures before your trip.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Narrow Village Roads
Be prepared for narrow village roads leading to Swinbrook. Drive cautiously and be mindful of other vehicles.
🚶♀️ Explore the Village
Combine your church visit with a stroll through the picturesque Swinbrook village and its beautiful surroundings.
📸 Photography Opportunities
Capture the unique Fettiplace monuments and the serene churchyard, especially the Mitford sisters' graves.
🕰️ Check Opening Times
While generally open, it's wise to confirm any specific visiting hours or event closures before your trip.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Swinbrook Church of St Mary the Virgin is a beautiful and historically rich medieval church, particularly noted for its exceptional 17th-century Fettiplace monuments and its connection to the famous Mitford sisters, whose graves are in the churchyard. Visitors praise its well-maintained interior and peaceful atmosphere, making it a worthwhile detour for history and art enthusiasts.
"The Church of England parish church of Saint Mary the Virgin dates from about 1200. Its unusual open-sided bell-tower was added in 1822.The church is noted for its 17th-century Fettiplace monuments.
David Freeman-Mitford, 2nd Baron Redesdale had Swinbrook House built 1.5 miles (2.4 km) north of the village. Four of his six daughters (the "Mitford sisters") are buried in the parish churchyard: Nancy, Unity, and Diana are buried side by side, while Pamela is buried northwest of the tower. There is a tablet in the church commemorating their only brother, Tom, killed in March 1945 in Burma.
St Mary's also has a monument to the officers and men of the Royal Navy submarine HMS P514, and especially its commander, Lieutenant W.A. Phillimore, whose parents lived at Swinbrook."
Dina Sikorska
"Beautiful old church building in the village of Swinbrook, just outside Burford. The main building days from the 12th century and there is a rather peculiar memorial to a local family of dignataries, descended from the Normans called the Fettiplace family."
Graham Miller
"Relatively ordinary from the outside, but full of interest inside: two AMAZING triple-decker funerary monuments; charming medieval stained glass; medieval stalls with misericords said to be from Burford Priory; and interesting wall tablets. Well worth a detour!"
Peter Kidd
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Swinbrook Church is located in the village of Swinbrook, near Burford in Oxfordshire. Access is typically by car, with narrow village roads leading to the church. Parking may be limited, so consider arriving early.
Public transport options to Swinbrook are limited. It's best to check local bus routes from nearby towns like Burford, but driving is generally the most convenient way to reach the church.
The roads leading to Swinbrook are narrow and winding. Drive slowly and be prepared to pull over for oncoming traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Swinbrook Church is generally open to visitors, and there is no admission fee. Donations are welcome to help with its upkeep.
The church is usually open daily for visitors to explore its interior and grounds. However, it's advisable to check for any specific service times or event closures that might affect access.
Swinbrook Church is an active parish church and can be booked for weddings and other events. Inquiries should be directed to the local church office.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find the remarkable 17th-century Fettiplace monuments, charming medieval stained glass, and misericords. The church also commemorates HMS P514.
Four of the Mitford sisters – Nancy, Unity, Diana, and Pamela – are buried in the churchyard. Their graves are a significant point of interest for visitors.
Visitors consistently describe the church as very well-maintained, contributing to its peaceful and inviting atmosphere.
Dating from around 1200, the church is notable for its Fettiplace monuments, its connection to the Mitford sisters, and its unusual open-sided bell-tower added in 1822.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside Swinbrook Church for personal use, but it's always respectful to be discreet, especially during services.
The Fettiplace monuments, the Mitford sisters' graves in the churchyard, and the overall picturesque village setting offer excellent photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Genealogists
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Fettiplace Monuments: A 17th-Century Masterpiece
These triple-decker monuments are considered some of the finest examples from the 17th century. They stand as a powerful visual narrative of the Fettiplace lineage, with intricate carvings and inscriptions that tell stories of their lives and legacies. The preservation of these monuments within Swinbrook Church makes it a unique destination for those interested in historical art and family histories.
The Mitford Sisters: A Literary and Social Legacy
Visitors often seek out the graves of the Mitford sisters, finding a quiet moment of reflection amidst the picturesque Cotswolds landscape. The proximity of their graves side-by-side underscores their close familial bonds. A tablet within the church also commemorates their brother, Tom, who was killed in action during World War II, further connecting the family's history to this sacred site.
Architectural Quirks and Hidden Gems
Inside, the church holds further treasures. Visitors can admire charming medieval stained glass windows that cast colorful light into the nave. There are also medieval stalls with misericords, which are said to have originated from the nearby Burford Priory. These details, along with various interesting wall tablets, contribute to the church's rich tapestry of history and artistry, making it well worth a detour for those exploring the Cotswolds.
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