St Mary's

Welcome to St Mary’s, Gilston!

Nestled in the Hertfordshire countryside, St Mary’s is a place where centuries of history meet a warm and welcoming community. Originally built around 1135 as a simple village church, it was lovingly rebuilt and expanded in the 13th century. The tower you see today reflects further developments in the late 16th century, when its upper section was reconstructed and the distinctive south brick stair-turret was added—giving the church its unique character.

Today, St Mary’s is part of the Benefice of High Wych and Gilston with Eastwick, a vibrant group of three churches working together to serve their communities. Across our benefice, you’ll find a variety of services, events, and gatherings to suit all ages and backgrounds.

We’d love to welcome you—do explore our Services and Events pages to see what’s coming up at St Mary’s and beyond. Come along and be part of our story!

St Botolph's

Welcome to St Botolph’s, Eastwick!

Set within a peaceful and picturesque village, St Botolph’s carries a rich story of change and renewal. Once a magnificent medieval church—described in early records as a large and impressive building with a tower, transepts, and fine tiled flooring at the east end—it stood proudly for centuries before being replaced in the 19th century. The church you see today was built between 1872 and 1875, continuing a long tradition of worship on this historic site.

Now part of the Benefice of High Wych and Gilston with Eastwick, St Botolph’s is a welcoming and active place at the heart of its community. Across our three churches, you’ll find a variety of services, events, and opportunities to come together in faith and friendship.

We’d love to see you here—visit our Services and Events pages to discover what’s coming up at St Botolph’s and across the benefice. A warm welcome awaits!

St James The Great

Welcome to St James the Great, High Wych!

Tucked beside High Wych School and surrounded by village life, St James the Great is a charming and distinctive Victorian church full of character. Designed by architect C.E. Pritchett and consecrated in 1861, its unusually small size only adds to its unique charm and sense of intimacy.

Inside, you’ll find a wealth of beautiful features—from the striking round bell turret topped with its blue “Bennet” clock, to the richly decorated apse and the magnificent two-manual “Father Willis” organ. Every corner of the church reflects its rich heritage and thoughtful design.

As part of the Benefice of High Wych and Gilston with Eastwick, St James is part of a lively and welcoming community. Together, our three churches offer a variety of services, events, and opportunities to connect, worship, and belong.

We’d love you to join us—take a look at our Services and Events pages to see what’s coming up at St James and across the benefice. A warm welcome awaits you!