St Ystyffan's Church

Heritage listing

Reason for designation: Included at II* as an exceptionally good restored medieval church, retaining many medieval features including chancel N arcade. Good monuments and interesting C19 and C20 stained glass. History: The first church here was probably founded c650, possibly by St Ystyffan. The Normans rebuilt the church soon after c1112. The dedication was changed to St Stephen, and remained so until the 1960s. In the 1170s the church was granted to the Knights Hospitaller of the Order of St John at Slebech. The present nave was built in the C13. The transepts were added in the mid to late C15. Porch added c1550. A chapel was added to the N Transept c1700 for the Lloyd family of Lacques. In 1710, the same chapel was described as roofless and in danger of falling down. In 1829 the medieval windows were enlarged and a new oak pulpit and reredos installed to plans by David Morgan. In 1844 the church was re-roofed and a gallery inserted by J L Collard. In 1869, Miss Lloyd of Lacques paid Mr Griff Davies for making a new freestone font. The church was extensively renovated, at the expense of Henry Parnall, in 1872, with the arch between the nave and tower blocked and new open pews installed. Two new windows were placed in the transepts at this time. A tablet commemorating this work was unveiled in 1874. A peal of 8 church bells were donated by Parnall in 1875. Further renovations were carried out in 1884-5. In 1887, Ann Parnall donated a 2-manual organ by Wedlake of London, and further alterations to the building were conducted at a cost of 400, these included the clock for the tower. In 1894, E. Collier, architect, had repairs undertaken to the tower. Stained glass windows by John Petts, resident in Llansteffan, were installed in 1974, 1980 and 1982. Exterior: Medieval pa

From Cadw under OGL v3.