Parts of St Mary the Virgin date back to the 13th century.  Edward's father, Reverend Stephen Jenner, was Rector of Rockhampton Parish and Vicar of Berkeley from 1729 until his death in 1754.  He was a clergyman of means owning lands and property in Gloucestershire and Worcestershire as well as being a tutor to one of the Earls of Berkeley.  Jenner’s mother, Sarah, who died in the same year as his father, was the daughter of the Rev Henry Head from a respected Berkshire family.  Edward’s older brother Stephen was Rector of Rockhampton Parish and Vicar of Berkeley (1758 - 1797), and helped care for Edward upon the death of their parents in 1754.

To the left of the altar in the Chancel of the Church is the Jenner family vault where Edward is buried with his parents, wife, and eldest son.

To the south of the Chancel (on the right facing the altar), above the blocked door to the Berkeley Burial Chapel, there is a tablet monument to Edward Jenner.  On the East window you will see the parish memorial to Dr Edward Jenner b.1749 d.1823.  In the Bell Tower, up in the ringing chamber there is another tablet monument to Stephen Jenner.  This strong connection to the Jenner family has been maintained for centuries and has made St Mary’s a place of pilgrimage for many.

The Museum is delighted to carry on this connection today working with the church on weddings with receptions held at The Chantry in the Old Dining Room, Cyder House or marquees in the beautiful garden which has changed little since Jenner’s time.

From the porch door, pass through the graveyard on the path towards the Church Bell Tower.  At the Church gate turn left into Church Lane and walk a few steps following the low wall to the right where you will find no. 3 Church Lane, home of James Phipps. You can click the QR code on the Plaque or click here for information on Location 9.