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The Church of St Mary The Virgin - Clifton Reynes - Open Day

St Mary The Virgin, Church Lane, Clifton Reynes, Olney, Buckinghamshire, MK46 5DT

  • 12 Sep 2026
  • | In person
  • | Pre-booking not required
  • | Exhibition

The church is in the heart of this small rural village. See an exhibition on the history of this fine medieval church with its rare wooden medieval wooden tombs. Join a talk on the history of the church, tombs and Reynes family.

The exhibition will focus on the history of the church which is a Grade 1 listed building, which reflects its significance as a largely medieval structure. The earliest part of the church dates from the 12C and the Reynes family, from which the village gets its name, added significant parts of the building through the 13C -15C. The nave roof dates from 1637 and its hight once lead to the church being described as the “Cathedral of North Bucks”. The north aisle was rebuilt in 1801. In the north chapel are a fascinating set of monuments, including floor brasses, two chest tombs and a sepulchral recess. There are six carved effigies of high quality, four of which are in oak - extremely rare survivors and of national significance. These tombs and the Reynes family will be the subject for our talk which will start at 11:30pm and last for approximately 40 mins.

The exhibition will also describe the ancient “Kites Charity” which dates from medieval times and is still celebrated in the village each year.

Either after or before visiting the church wander through the village which is a conservation area and see many of the old village houses. You can stop off at our village pub The Robin Hood which has been serving customers since 1577.

Tea and coffee will be available in the church throughout the day.

Timings

Saturday 12 September:
Exhibition: 1030-1600. Talk: 1130-1230

Location & directions

St Mary The Virgin, Church Lane, Clifton Reynes, Olney, Buckinghamshire, MK46 5DT

Directions:
The village is off Newton Road which is a rural road leading from Emberton to Turvey. It is a very narrow road in places so drivers should be cautious. The church is at the far end of the village. There is very little parking so if you are able it is better to park near the pub and walk (about 5-10mins) to the church.
Contact on day:
Marion Swindells
Telephone number:
+447523949416

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:
Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

Access to the church for wheelchairs and pushchairs/prams is across bumpy grass covered church yard to the north door. Flat inside the church. Compost toilet but not accessible for wheelchairs. Nearest accessible toilet is at The Robin Hood Inn which opens at 12pm.

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