Stanton Saint Quintin brings together themes from several periods: St Giles preserves older fabric, the dovecote is the only surviving remnant of a medieval manor, and Glebe Farmhouse represents the history of rural architecture. There is also a Roman villa site and a stage of the Athelstan Pilgrim Way. Architectural history, archaeology and a specific walking option thus sit side by side.
St Giles and its building phases
St Giles contains fabric dating from the 12th to the 15th century. Alterations were made in 1826 and 1851; the chancel dates from 1888. The different dates make the church a clear example of several building phases rather than a single point of origin. St Giles is open daily to visitors and for private prayer from approximately 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. As these times are approximate, check current visiting hours when planning your visit to the church.
The dovecote at The Manor
The circular dovecote at The Manor is designated a Scheduled Monument. It is about 9 metres high and 8 metres in diameter. Its height and diameter are close to one another, giving the circular form a tangible sense of scale. The dovecote is the only surviving remnant of the medieval manor and its associated buildings. The manor and buildings were demolished and replaced in the mid-19th century.
Glebe Farmhouse and rural architectural history
Glebe Farmhouse and its associated privy in Lower Stanton St. Quintin, Chippenham, Wiltshire, are listed Grade II. They are considered examples of early vernacular architecture and recall the agricultural history of the area. The earliest written reference to Glebe Farm dates from 1624; the house is considered the oldest farmhouse in the village. The rear range retains substantial, chamfered ceiling beams, a stone-flagged floor and two early windows. The windows may date from the 17th century. These architectural details give concrete form to its classification as early vernacular architecture.
Roman find and pilgrim way
The site of a Roman villa was excavated at Stanton Wood Park in 1910. Parts of a room and a hypocaust were uncovered. The find adds a Roman chapter to the area's history alongside its medieval and agricultural remains.
One walking option is the fourth stage of the Athelstan Pilgrim Way, from Stanton St Quintin to Alderton. It is 5.75 miles long and classed as an easy walk. As path conditions can change, check them before setting out.
Planning your stay
Stanton St Quintin Parish Hall is about one mile north of M4 junction 17 and can be reached via the A429. Different factors matter when planning your day: for St Giles, the approximate daily visiting window; for the pilgrim way, the stage length and current path conditions.
Discover more destinations: Staverton, Whiteparish, Wylye, Grittleton, Marlborough, Holt, Bratton, Cricklade.
For the broader travel overview: Wiltshire.
