St. Giles Church, Standlake

St Giles Church is part of the Lower Windrush Benefice which has four churches. There are services most Sundays in St Giles, using the Common Worship and Celtic tradition formats. There is a Book of Common Prayer Communion service weekly at 10am on a Wednesday morning. Teas and coffee is served after all services giving a chance to chat.

We also host Benefice services as do the other three churches. The Parish Council has provided a Car Park next to the Church so there is easy parking. We have an accessible toilet.

We were awarded Eco Church Silver at Easter 2024 – at the time there were under 30 churches in the Oxford Diocese who had gained this award. The Standlake Churchyards Project was launched in 2023 developing the New Churchyard and developing biodiversity across the site. Follow this link to find out more: https://lowerwindrushbenefice.org/standlake-churchyards/

Teacake Tuesday happens on the second and fourth Tuesday every month at 10:30am until 12. Other events, such as flower festivals, book sales, coffee mornings, concerts and social occasions take place, and the local Church of England controlled school holds regular services in the church. Home Communion is taken to those who are ill in nursing homes or at home.

Standlake is a large village, situated about 6 miles south of Witney. St Giles Church is is a Grade II* listed Church based on late Norman foundations (c1180), it was largely rebuilt in the 13th century. During the 14th century, a period of relative prosperity, the chancel and transepts were remodelled and the aisles and unusual octagonal tower and spire added. The clerestory was built in the 15th century to add light. Like many churches, St Giles fell into disrepair during the 17th and 18th centuries. A major restoration was begun in 1876, returning the building to its Early English architectural style as far as possible. The carved oak pews and chancel roof of this restoration are wonderful. In 2012 a generous legacy enabled the Church to have a dais constructed in front of the chancel for a nave altar and in order to accommodate choirs and other performances.

Visitors comment: “I loved the carvings of all the saints on the end of the pews”; “I didn’t notice all the angels looking down at me at first, they’re so lovely”; “My little boy loved that you had toys for him to play with”; “A very friendly church, thank you for making me feel part of it so quickly”.