The History of the Parish Church of St Peter & St Paul, Bassingbourn

If you would like a copy of the church history booklet then please download the file.

Bassingbourn Church has a very long history, in fact it's older than the Church of England itself! The first recorded reference to the church was in the reign of King Henry 3rd (1216-1272) who granted that there should be a fair of eight days here on the festival of Saints Peter and Paul.

The building was built over a long period during the fourteenth century, starting with the tower, and was completed by 1400.

Francis Holcroft:

"Francis Holcroft (1629-87) was possibly the most radical and controversial appointment in Bassingbourn Church's history. He was made "Minister of the Word" during the Commonwealth period when the normal governance of the Church of England had been suspended.

Until recently, there was no evidence of his time of service at Bassingbourn. Fortunately his name has now been included on the board of previous incumbents just inside the door of the Church and due recognition given to his evangelic contribution.

Upon the restoration of the Monarchy, following the return from exile of Charles the Second, Francis Holcroft left Bassingbourn and became an itinerant preacher, imprisoned on several occasions for preaching without a license. A Vicar was appointed at Bassingbourn by Ely Cathedral and matters allowed to return to much as they were before the Civil War."

Francis Holcroft died of natural causes at a respectable age. Large numbers turned out to his funeral to celebrate his life. Amongst them were a fair number of barrackers, the types who had plagued his latter years.

A booklet explaining the church history was produced in 1975, and is currently being updated. This is an 'ongoing' project and if you would like to contribute to the history guide you are most welcome. We are currently trying to research the church window history?

Please contact rscott@hrc.ac.uk with any articles or information for inclusion within the guide.

A copy of the history guide is available within the church (Please do not remove). You can also download a copy below or at the top of this page.

History Links:

1 View some Church photos

2 'Inside Bassingbourn Church' video

3 If you would like a copy of the church history booklet then please download the file

4 To read more information about Francis Holcroft

5 A brief history of Kneesworth House

6 Bassingbourn Tower Museum

7 History of the local areas