Features of interest: Outside
The south (main) entrance was once approached through a porch.  Above the door on the outside is a famous twelfth century Norman tympanum.  This has a basso-relievo representation of a figure (probably “Christ in Majesty”) seated on a throne, the right hand raised in blessing and the left resting on a closed book supported on the thigh, within an oval compartment; on each side is a winged figure kneeling on one knee, supporting the medallion.  The semi-circular arch of this doorway is richly zig-zagged, and supported by two low pillars with sculptured capitals; and along the head of the doorway, underneath the basso-relievo, is a border of small intersecting arcade work, delicately carved.
Above the north door on the outside is another Norman tympanum.  Just above two engraved dragons in combat on the lintel of the door, the sculpture is generally thought to be of a lamb and cross (the “Agnus Dei”) against a diaper of roses or quatrefoils.  However, an interesting suggestion has been made that it represents the “Holy Hind” (see section on St. Giles).  This priest’s door leads to the neighbouring house which was the rectory until the last resident rector was called to his ship as a naval chaplain on the mobilization of the Fleet in August, 1939.
The churchyard is managed for wildlife so please do not expect to see manicured lawns!  A recent visitor counted at least thirty-five different plant species just outside the church door.  A plan of the graves was prepared by the local historical society and a copy is available. The trees include limes, horse chestnuts, sycamores, hawthorns and yews, and on the northern edge of the churchyard stands a magnificent hornbeam, considered by local experts to be one of the finest specimens in North Buckinghamshire.

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