The War Memorial

The War Memorial in Lacock, Wiltshire, is the village's First World War monument, standing beside West Street a short walk from the centre of this National Trust-protected village. Grade II listed since 1987, it is more than a simple roadside cross: its stone frame was salvaged from a grand monument that once stood inside the parish church.

What is the Lacock War Memorial?

The memorial was completed in 1920 to honour local men who died in the First World War. Its architectural frame is far older than the monument itself. The stonework dates to the early 18th century and originally belonged to the memorial of Sir John Talbot, who died in 1714, in the north-east chapel of St Cyriac's Church. It was taken down in the late 19th century when a window needed unblocking. Matilda Talbot, the last of the family to own Lacock Abbey, offered the frame to the village, and it was reused for the war dead.

What will you see?

The central piece is built of dressed stone and rests on a panelled base. Two Corinthian columns carry a moulded entablature topped with a segmental pediment, and the pediment holds a carved armorial trophy. In the 1920 infill, a standing cross is set in a niche above the inscription panel. Low curved walls of rubble stone with piers flank the monument on either side, giving it the look of a small architectural stage set rather than a freestanding column.

Records list 30 names from the First World War and a further 14 from the Second World War. Brass plaques and other memorials in the village add to the picture, so the monument works well as a first stop before you visit them.

How do you get there?

Lacock lies about 5 km south of Chippenham. The memorial is on the west side of West Street, on foot only a few minutes from the abbey and the village's main lanes. Cars are normally left in the public car park at the edge of the village, since the historic streets are narrow.

When should you visit?

The memorial is outdoors and open at all times. Around 11 November, Remembrance Sunday services draw villagers to the site, which makes the occasion especially meaningful. Visit in the morning for quieter streets and softer light on the stone.

What else is nearby?

• St Cyriac's Church, where the original Talbot monument and a brass roll of honour can be seen.
• Lacock Abbey, home of the Talbot family and the setting of early photographic experiments.
• Bowden Hill cross in St Anne's churchyard, a granite Celtic-style cross unveiled in 1920.
• Notton cross, moved to Lacock cemetery, commemorating four local men.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entry fee?

No. The memorial stands in the open and can be viewed free at any time.

Is the memorial protected?

Yes. It has been Grade II listed on the National Heritage List for England since 7 January 1987.

Who is commemorated?

Local people who died in the two World Wars, with 30 names from the first and 14 from the second recorded in published rolls.

How long does a visit take?

Ten to fifteen minutes. Combine it with the church and the abbey for a half-day walk around Lacock.