Helping the walls to speak
Welcome to Widford Church History Site
There is only so much a web site can do to describe our church building and its place in the heart of community life here in Widford. We have included some photographs, but not everything is on view here. We strongly encourage you to come and look for yourselves!
About Us
Nine Centuries of Service
The church owes its origin to the Cluniac Monks. The great Abbey of Cluny, Saone et Loire, France, was founded in 910 by William, Duke of Aquitaine. Members of the Order subsequently established themselves in England and founded Bermondsey Abbey in 1082. In 1118, Robert, Earl of Leicester and Mellent, bestowed the Manor of Widford on those Monks who were responsible for building this church.
It is today, as through its history and as its founders intended, not a museum but a living and working place, hallowed by prayer and in constant use for the worship of God and for service to the community.
The building is locked for the night at about 5pm every evening (earlier in the darker months).
Opening Times
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
9:00am to 5:00pm
9:00am to 5:00pm
9:00am to 5:00pm
9:00am to 5:00pm
9:00am to 5:00pm
9:00am to 5:00pm
9:00am to 5:00pm
Our Latest News
Here are some of the most recent updates – there are more in the blog, searchable from the main menu.
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Improved Entry on John Eliot
One of the famous sons of St John the Baptist’s Church is John Eliot, “Apostle to the Indians.” Born and baptised in Widford in 1604,… Continue reading
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Open to Everyone
The church building is open every day and regularly welcomes visitors from the village and, as part of the newly established London-Walsingham Camino, from all… Continue reading
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New History Website
Widford Church has been here for a very long time. If its walls could speak, there would be so many stories any historian would be… Continue reading