📷 Photo by Philip Halling · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons
This small village sits just two miles north of Cirencester on the River Churn, making it easily accessible for a short excursion from the market town.
The settlement has deep roots—archaeological finds show people have lived here since prehistoric times, and the Romans left their mark too. The name Baunton appears in the Domesday Book as Baudintone, likely deriving from someone called Balda.
The main reason to visit is St Mary Magdalene, the Norman church at the village's heart. Built around 1150 by Augustinian monks from Cirencester Abbey, it initially served as a chapel of ease before becoming the parish church in 1551. Inside, you'll discover a striking wall painting from the 14th century depicting St Christopher carrying the Christ Child across a stream—the sort of medieval detail that makes a quiet visit worthwhile.
The village itself is understated and rural, ideal if you want to step away from Cirencester's activity without traveling far. The riverside setting along the Churn provides pleasant walking routes, and the surrounding countryside displays the characteristic rolling Cotswolds landscape. This is a place to come for an unhurried wander and some local history rather than formal attractions. It works well as a complement to exploring Cirencester's Roman heritage and market town character, which is only a short drive away.
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