St Laurence Church was built circa 1224, on the site of an earlier Church, of which virtually nothing remains. It dominates the local landscape with its octagonal tower and spire. The weather cock is 157 feet above ground, and was given to the church in 1880 by the then landlord of the Duke of Wellington Public House.

 

In the Middle Ages, Stanwick was under the authority of the Abbots of Peterborough. Among the duties of the Abbot was to appoint the Rectors of Stanwick. Since the Reformation, the Lord Chancellor has appointed the Rectors on behalf of the Sovereign.

St. Laurence Church

(early 1900s)

Many of Stanwick's streets are named after former Rectors.

 

Richard Cumberland was the son of the Rev. Denison Cumberland. He was born in 1732, a year after his father became Rector of Stanwick. Richard went on to become a famous dramatist and is buried in Poets Corner in Westminster Abbey. Richard described Stanwick in his memoirs as 'that retired and tranquil spot', and went on to say, 'In this peaceful spot with parents so affectionate I was the happiest of beings in my breakings up from school'.

 

Other Rectors that have given their name to Stanwick streets are Ralph of Collingham (first recorded Rector at the Church in 1224), William de Casterton, John Manningham, Richard Cleburne, Dr George Mansfield, Rev. John FL Eagle, Dr William Dolben and Dr Peter Needham.