Oops!

The extraordinarily large church at Westbury dates from about 1300, (not earlier than 1300 according to Peusner). The aisle arcades are of seven bays, those on the north with a decided lean outwards. A south window bears the legend, “this church was built ad 1530”, which is misleading.  It is more likely that the south arcade was pulled down and rebuilt, the pillars not only straight but slightly higher.The chancel was drastically restored in the 19th century, but contains earlier memorials.

Among the interesting fittings is a fine pair of brass chandeliers, probably made in Bristol about 1730. There is also a carved pedestal to the font bearing the Arms of Elizabeth I and dated 1583. One window sill contains a rose piscina and the porch has scratched crusader crosses and part of a medieval stone coffin.There is a fine collection of Victorian stained glass windows by well known firms such as Clayton and Bell, Kemps and Tower, Powells etc.The church is dedicated to Sts Peter, Paul and Mary. Originally a chapel to St Mary stood against the tower, subsequently becoming the village school. When this was taken down in 1862 St Mary was added to the others.The detached tower is of great interest as it was built about 1270 as a garrison or watch tower to guard the river.  The spire was added in the 14th century and is made entirely of wood. Looking up inside it resembles a giant spider’s web of timber. The tower contains six bells, the heaviest peal in Gloucestershire. The tower, spire and bells are to be the subject of an appeal for restoration.Westbury Church is opened daily.

(GPO and Ordinance Survey references  GL14 1PD / OS ref  717142)