St Peter & St Paul, Whitney on Wye

Nestled beside the River Wye in the peaceful village of Whitney-on-Wye, St Peter & St Paul’s Church is a beautiful and atmospheric rural church with a fascinating history.

The present church was largely rebuilt in 1740, after the earlier medieval church, which stood closer to the River Wye, was considered at risk from river erosion. That earlier church is believed to have occupied a site dating back to at least the 12th century, and a remarkable Norman font from this period survives today.

Inside, visitors can admire historic stonework, beautiful stained-glass windows and memorials connected to local families and village history. The church tower houses a ring of bells, continuing a long tradition of worship and community life at the heart of Whitney-on-Wye.

The church also has intriguing literary connections. The Victorian diarist Reverend Francis Kilvert frequently visited the village during the 19th century, while the poet William Wordsworth had family connections to the area through his brother-in-law, John Monkhouse of nearby Stowe Farm.

Outside the wooden wall memorial  includes the name  Allan Leonard Lewis, Herefordshire’s only native-born recipient of the Victoria Cross, who was born in Whitney-on-Wye and was awarded the VC for exceptional bravery during the First World War. Inside the church, visitors can also see a statuette dedicated to Allan Leonard Lewis, providing a moving reminder of his courage and connection to the village.

Surrounded by peaceful Herefordshire countryside close to the Welsh border, St Peter & St Paul’s offers visitors a glimpse into the rich heritage, architecture and rural character of the Wye Valley.

Why Visit?

Situated in the tranquil riverside village of Whitney-on-Wye, St Peter & St Paul’s Church offers far more than simply a historic building. Here, history, architecture, literature and the beauty of the Wye Valley quietly come together.

A delightful place to pause and explore while discovering this beautiful corner of the county.