WINTERBORNE WHITECHURCH & THE CHURCH OF ST. MARY

The oldest part of the church, the base of the tower, only goes back to the 12th century, although the name of the Parish would imply that a church has existed here since Saxon times.  Indeed, on the outer face of the north wall of the  church there is a roughly cut cross that dates back to the Saxons.  The roof of the church has clay tiles that replaced the original lead roof back in 1790, and the work is recorded as having been carried out by Stephen Carpenter of Blandford.  More rebuilding took place in 1841 when the nave was taken down and rebuilt with the addition of aisles and the south porch.  

 

Outside a sundial can be seen  over the south window of the Lady Chapel and in the churchyard the War Memorial stands where there was once the Village Cross.

 

Winterborne Whitechurch has a fascinating history but today is a thriving community with several local businesses, including a top kitchen designer, a farm shop, and a pub serving excellent food.  The school is also an integral part of the village infrastructure.