Church of St Michael and All Angels, Maxstoke

1 c1340. A plain rectangular structure with a modern embattled bell-turret at the W end and a modern vestry on S. C18 pulpit and panelling. The church and walls, butressed on the S, are probably ancient.
2 Built at the same time as the priory, c 1340. A church at Maxstoke is mentioned in the late C13.
3 Evidently dates from the same time as the priory and castle, but it is a surprising building. It looks as if it is the very proud chancel to a church that was never built. Can this be due to its having been built as a chapel ante portas of the priory? No division between nave and chancel.
4 Photographs.
5 Ground higher at E than W – plinth buried at E. Adjoining settlement removed when priory built? C17 vaults indicated by wall plaques. External drains – whole exterior. C14 priory adjoins church. Below-floor deposits probably extensively disturbed by graves inside church. Possible remains of deserted settlement around church.