Designed
and built in the seventeenth century by Inigo Jones under instructions
from the fourth Earl of Bedford, the patron of the parish. According
to the story, when asked by Jones what manner of church he wanted built,
Bedford replied, "oh, a plain looking building, a barn, will do"
and that is what Jones built him, albeit a mighty handsome 'barn'.
In
1795 a fire broke out in the west end of the church, apparently
caused by the neglect of plumbers engaged in some restoration
work. The fire destroyed the entire interior of the church.
The church was not insured, and thus the expense of rebuilding
fell on the parish. Restoration was eventually completed.
