There have been various derivations of the name Chailey including “Cheagele” (shown in the Doomsday book of 1086), “Chaggeley” and “Chaleghe”.  It originates from the Anglo Saxon period when:

• “Geac leah” meant “cuckoo clearing”
• “Chag” meant broom or gorse and “Ley” referred to open ground or meadows, which are both still features of the area today

Following the death of Richard de Plaiz in 1269, the assets that were left to his wife (Joan) included

“…the advowson [patronage] of the Church of Chaggeleys pertaining to the aforesaid Richard is worth twelve marks.”

The church is therefore likely to date from before this time, and has undergone a number of renovations and adaptations in order to meet changing circumstances. On entering the church you will immediately notice how wide it is, which is due to the addition of two extensions:

• In 1846 the northern wall of the original church was demolished and replaced with pillars in order that an additional aisle and seating could be installed.  At this time, some of the original features within the chancel were replaced and other restoration work was undertaken
• In 1878 the new northern wall was removed and a third aisle added to provide further seating

The pillars that were added in 1846 run east to west from the pulpit, whilst those that were added in 1878 are the furthest from the entrance door.

A plan of the church can be seen by using the link in the top right-hand corner of this page. Four futher links are provided for each of the major areas within the church.