Passing on the main road to Calne it's easy to be unimpressed with Cherhill. One has to venture off the road into the honeycomb of narrow lanes to truly appreciate the villages charm. Having dared this maze, leavened by many traditional buildings, you find the church of St James.
Well situated in a substantial and very well kept churchyard, the church commands its gently sloping site. St James church dates back to the 12'th century, with a 15'th century arcade. Like all old churches it has been rebuilt and restored over the years, and had a major restoration in the 1860s. The west gallery was added in the 1840s. Internally it is obviously a much loved building with a very welcoming atmosphere. Well rewarding the time spent in appreciation.
The church sits on, or near, the site of a Roman villa, and as befits a community so near Avebury the parish has evidence of human endeavour back to the iron ages. This church is normally open and represents close to the ideal in a country church. (Photographed in April 2010 by Nick Temple-Fry)
