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The Aldworth Giants

Aldworth with its ancient church, village pub and remote and tranquil location is a charming place for an afternoon’s pottering – perhaps after a walk on the Ridgeway.

In the 13th Century the Manor was held by the Norman family of de la Beche – who had found favour with William of Normandy after the Battle of Hastings.  Within St Mary’s Church lie nine stone effigies of this family which all date from the half century 1300-1350 and are unique in the country.  They lie in stately stone splendour and are so tall in scale they are known as the “Aldworth Giants”.  No other parish church possesses anything like them, even in their damaged condition, and to find them in a tiny village is remarkable.

The church dates back in part to around 1200. The ancient yew tree in the peaceful churchyard – which is often full of wildflowers – is at least 1000 years old and, though it has been struck by lightning and blown over in a storm, is still partly alive.

More information about the history of Aldworth and the church can be found on the village website.  It also includes a downloadable pdf mapping the public rights of way around the village to help you plan a local walk.