The Parish and Church of Impington

The earliest known date for Impington is AD 991, when the manor was given to the Monastery at Ely by Duke Brithnoth.

The name is said to derive from a Saxon tribe, "Empings". The village "Epintone" is in the Domesday Book (pop. 143). The church was reconstructed in the 14^th century, the porch being added in the 15^th.

Considerable restoration work was done in 1879 under Mr Ewan Christian - the chancel arch was widened and the box pews removed. The painting on the north wall is a 15^th century representation of St Christopher.

On the floor of the tower is the 16^th century brass of John and Margaret Burgoyne with their 7 sons and 3 daughters.

Two of the bells are 15^th century. The treble (by Richard Hille 1423-1440) is the second oldest in the Deanery and has been calling people to church for 500 years. The tenor was recast in 1925.

The churchyard wall was built in 1613. This date, and the initials of the then churchwardens (Thomas Hodilow and Charles Duckett) can still be seen from the road, built into the wall in red bricks.

Samuel Pepys came to Impington Church while visiting his uncle Talbot who lived in Impington Hall. Talbot Pepys was for a time civil registrar and signed the marriage registers. The niche by the pulpit is 15^th century. It now houses a wooden crucifix made in 1975 by Mr L W Pendred.

The roof was restored completely in 1989, with new guttering and downpipes.

The East Window was designed and made by Goddard and Gibbs (London) in 1991, and dedicated on St Andrew's Day, November 30^th. The apples and pears in the window are to commemorate Chivers and the sweet peas and gladioli Unwins. Both these family firms have given a great deal to Impington in the twentieth century.

Although it has proved necessary to keep the church locked during the week, it is possible to arrange to visit. Please note that a small charge is made for brass-rubbing.

Contact the Church Office for further details.