Set to the north of the Avebury to Calne Road (A4) the Church of All Saints at Yatesbury is a well hidden gem. Approaching along The Avenue you can see the church from the west, but close to it vanishes from sight midst mature trees, the actual entrance is understated (from behind the village hall) and easy to miss.
A walk around the well kept graveyard reveals a large number of war graves, for Yatesbury was the sight of one of England's earliest airfields. From here airmen left in both the first and second world wars.
There is evidence of settlements around Yatesbury from well before 'recorded' time with numerous earthworks, as befits a location so close to Avebury.
It is known that there was a church here in the 12'th century. Though the current structure of Yatesbury All Saints dates predominantly from the 13'th and 14'th centuries. With the addition of a tower in the 15'th century.
Like many churches, however 'fixed' their structure appears to current eyes, this church enjoyed continued change and restoration throughout its life. A south aisle, built in the 14'th century was later demolished, into the one surviving arch is set the South doorway. The stone animal heads on the doorway are the sole survivors from the 12'th century structure.
The narrow north aisle features the organ and 15'th century windows.
Restoration in the 19'th century saw the chancel arch enlarged. The fine period appearance of the chancel, alas often rather dark, is well worth a moments reflection. The church also features a fine roof.
This church is usually open.
