St Chad's Church, Wishaw

St Chad’s Church stands in the quiet village of Wishaw, Warwickshire. A Grade II* listed building, it dates from the 13th century with later additions. Around 1700 a major extension was added to the original nave. In 1886–87 a full restoration renewed the fabric and fittings. The pulpit came from St Mark’s Church in Ladywood after it was demolished in 1947. Low stone walls surround the churchyard, enclosing a peaceful green space. The church holds a collection of notable monuments to local families. Seven wall tablets record the deaths of Andrew Hacket in 1709, John Lisle Hacket in 1673, Mary Lisle in 1676, Thomas Lander in 1809, Howard Procter Ryland in 1905, John Hacker in 1718 and Lady Hacker in 1716. Each tablet is carved in classical style with cherubs and urns. The inscriptions give short accounts of the deceased’s lives and virtues. Together they form a quiet record of Wishaw’s past. Inside, the nave is plain and whitewashed, with a west gallery added in the 18th century. The pulpit stands on a carved stone base brought from Birmingham. A small organ occupies the north aisle, its pipes painted cream. Slate memorials are set into the floor near the altar. Tall lancet windows let in steady north light. Outside, the churchyard contains yew and lime trees, their shade falling on the graves.