Bourton-On-The-Water War Memorial

Origins & Community Commitment

  • In January 1920, the residents of Bourton-on-the-Water gathered for a public meeting to honour their fallen. They resolved to erect a war memorial to commemorate the 27 local villagers who died in World War I.

  • Drawing inspiration from nearby memorials at Ampney Crucis and Stainsbury, they selected a dignified cross design, funded by local contributions.

  • The memorial was unveiled on 7 December 1920 by Major-General Sir H.B. Walker and dedicated by Reverend Canon W.E. White at a moving ecumenical ceremony

Heritage & Cultural Significance

  • In September 2016, the memorial—along with its gated enclosure—was granted Grade II listed status for its historical and aesthetic importance. Historic England notes its eloquent representation of local sacrifice, its well-executed design, and its group value amidst nearby listed structures.

Design & Architectural Features

  • The memorial is a stone Latin cross, rising from a tapering octagonal shaft set upon an octagonal plinth, all atop a four-stepped base.

  • Carvings in low relief adorn the shaft’s foot. Metal plaques on each side of the plinth bear the names of the fallen from both World Wars. The front face is inscribed with a moving dedication:

“1914–1918 / 1939–1945 / To those of this village who made the sacrifice for peace. Sons of this place let this of you be said, that you who live are worthy of the dead. These gave their lives that you who live may reap a richer harvest ere you fall asleep.”

  • The memorial stands within a square, gated enclosure, featuring low stone posts linked by metal chains, creating a defined, respectful setting.

Community Role & Continuing Legacy

  • Located prominently on The Green at the junction of High Street and Sherborne Street, with serene river views nearby, the war memorial serves as a focal point for remembrance in Bourton-on-the-Water.

  • It stands as a permanent testament to community grief, remembrance, and the impact of global conflict on small communities. The names of 27 WWI and 12 WWII fallen villagers are inscribed, offering a tangible connection across generations.