St Laurence

Roofs of Broseley tiles in blue and red bands.

Exterior: The three-stage west tower is 14th century, with diagonal buttresses and fairly small two-light bell openings, part hidden by clock faces.

Viewed from a path from Lansdown. The tower and spire are the only 14th century parts of the church to survive the rebuild of 1866-1868.

© Jaggery

By George Gilbert Scott Junior, a reredos of 1872, carved by Morris Geflowski, with high relief panels (Gethsemane, Crucifixion and Deposition) by Edward Geflowski.

The font and pulpit, both contemporary with the church, are of coloured marbles and alabaster.

Chancel floor tiles by Godwin of Lugwardine.

Rood screen by W.S. Weatherley, 1910-14

It has a rib-vaulted cove with brattished cresting, and a built-in tester to the pulpit.

There is much good stained glass.

The best monument is that in the south transept to Thomas Stephens, d.

Thomas Stephens of Eastington and Lypiatt, who died in 1613.

© Mike Searle

80 good quality brass inscription plates from 18th century tombstones, many with good lettering, Rococo ornament, etc. History: The medieval parish church of St Laurence was founded as a chapel-of-ease to Bisley before 1279.

Reasons for Designation: The church of St Laurence, Stroud, is designated at Grade II* for the following principal reasons: * The medieval west tower and spire constitute a rare survival of pre-Reformation architecture in Stroud, as well as forming an important focal point for the town's streetscape. * The ambitious rebuilding of the 1860s is of very careful design and workmanship, and on an impressive scale.

The exceptional range and quality of the Victorian and early 20th century fittings and glass do much to enhance the architectural setting. * The church possesses a good ensemble of monuments.