possibly starting in the 12th century. Whelford Meadow is a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest. The site lies on the gravels of the Upper Thames basin. It is of significant importance as it contains two nationally rare plants as well as uncommon plants. It is grassland (as its name implies). Whelford Pools (part of the Cotswold Water Park SSSI) are nearby. These are owned and managed by the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust as a nature reserve. The meadow is dominated by species such as meadowsweet and common couch. A number of different species of sedge have been record and these include the nationally rare downey-fruited sedge (Carex tomentosa). Orchids present include southern marsh orchid. Adder's tongue flourishes on this site. The meadow supports fritillary which is nationally rare. The margins of the meadow are scrubland and this area provides cover for breeding birds such as warblers. Religious sites The Anglican Church of St Mary the Virgin was built in the 12th century. The chancel was added in the 13th century with further alterations in subsequent centuries. A Victorian restoration was carried out by George Edmund Street around 1858. It is a Grade I listed building. The church has an eight-bay nave, chancel with wagon roof and three-stage tower supported by diagonal buttresses. Many of the monuments in the churchyard are also listed. References External links Village website Civil parishes in Gloucestershire Villages in Gloucestershire Cotswold District