About Us

Our Church

St Peter’s Church, Stixwould, stands on the site of an earlier church dating from the 15th century. The present church was rebuilt in 1831 by the architect Christopher Turner, while retaining some fabric and furnishings from the older building.

Among the most interesting features is the church screen. It is believed to have originated from Halstead Hall and was later placed in the earlier church, where it enclosed the choir. The screen seen today is only around one third of the original.

The reredos, the decorative screen or panel behind the altar, was originally a three-panel painting of the Good Shepherd by a relative of the Revd Bates, who served the parish from 1913 to 1923. These panels are now mounted in the tower.

The octagonal font is another feature of particular interest. Four of its panels show the emblems of the Evangelists. The panels between them include a seated monk holding a “Y”, representing January; a man with arms akimbo, representing February; a friar for March; and a man holding a rose for April.

Some of the pew ends on the south side of the nave came from the earlier church. Visitors may notice the expressive faces carved into them: some from the old church appear rather mournful, while later carvings look more cheerful. One particularly memorable detail shows a woman poking her tongue out at a devil on the opposite pew end.

Near the pulpit is a stone coffin lid, believed to be that of the last Abbess of Stixwould Priory.

St Peter’s is a church full of history, character and unexpected details, and visitors are warmly welcome to come in, look around and enjoy this special place.

Rector and Churchwarden

Our Priest in Charge is the Rev. Sally Clifton. Sally is available to contact by telephone on 07949 556494, or email [email protected]

Our Church warden is Margaret Forman who can be contacted on 07931 574498