Welcome
The Grade II listed Church of St Mary & All Saints in Swarby blends 13th-century origins with a distinct Victorian character. Much of its current aesthetic - including the nave, aisle roofs, and pews - stems from an extensive 19th-century restoration.
The church captures the transition from the Early English (13th c.) to the Decorated (14th c.) and Perpendicular (15th c.) styles, finished with a significant Victorian restoration (1886-7).
- 13th Century: The earliest stone remnants, including the 3-bay north arcade, the tower arch, and the small window hidden behind the pulpit.
- 14th Century: The south arcade with its "hollow chamfered" piers and the intricate south door reveals.
- 15th Century: The imposing 3-stage west tower, likely funded or influenced by Vicar Richard Thoresby (1467-1507).
- Victorian Restoration: A major overhaul that rebuilt the Chancel arch and south aisle, introducing the Minton encaustic tiles and the current open timber roof.
Within its walls, you can find artifacts spanning a millennium, including a 1,000-year-old Anglo-Saxon grave marker and a headless 13th-century stone Christ that survived the turmoils of the Reformation. The Thomas Betson ledger stone in the North aisle represents a fragment of history belonging to a 14th-century landowner who contributed to the defense against the Spanish Armada. The Anthony Williams Monument (1681) in the Chancel offers a glimpse into the life of a local "gentleman" farmer, featuring a classic 17th-century obelisk design. Don’t forget to pay your respects to Queen Victoria as you leave via the South door.
St. Mary and All Saints, Swarby has been a place of refuge, hospitality, and worship for over 800 years. Today it has Festival Church status, where Harvest and Christmas services are well-attended.
Community Coffee Mornings
Join us for coffee, cake, and conversation!
- When: 1st Saturday of every month, March to December.
- Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 noon.
- All are welcome.
Safeguarding
The parish of South Lafford is committed to the safeguarding of children, young people and adults. We follow the House of Bishops guidance and policies and have our own Parish Safeguarding Officer(s), PSOs. The Diocese of Lincoln’s safeguarding pages contain vital links and information including contacts for the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor (DSA) who advise our PSOs. If you are concerned that a child or adult has been harmed or may be at risk of harm please contact the DSA. If you have immediate concerns about the safety of someone, please contact the police and your local authority Children or Adults Services.
