THE HISTORY OF ST LEONARD’S LEXDEN

The present church of St Leonard, standing in the heart of the old village, was built in the Gothic style, and was consecrated in 1821. It replaced a smaller medieval building which stood on the same site. All that is left from the old church is a large memorial by the South door, and a 14 th century bell. There are records of Rectors of Lexden dating back to 1300. During the 19 th century, Lexden was changing from a small village to a fashionable suburb of Colchester: and the new church was part of this development. The squat chancel proved too small for late Victorian tastes in worship. The present, rather grand chancel was built in 1893, together with the Lady Chapel and organ chamber. There have been no major changes to the building since this date. However, an extension is currently being considered on the South side of the church to provide modern facilities suitable for the 21 st century. The new building will include new choir vestry, meeting room, toilets and coffee making area.

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