Woodsford is seriously rural Dorset, probably best known for the thatched and originally fortified castle of the same name. It was at the castle that the young Thomas Hardy was tested by the architect, John Hicks, before being taken on as one of his apprentices.

There was a C13 church here, but probably because it had been allowed to dangerously decay or perhaps because the local landowner wanted something better, all but part of the west tower was pulled down and rebuilt to a design by T.H Wyatt in 1861-2. The present church is almost hidden behind trees on all sides and well set back to the north of the road. The saddle roof to the tower is attractive and the building harmonizes very well with its surroundings.

The inside is fairly predictable, but nevertheless projects a delightful aura of calm. The eye is naturally drawn to the chancel and the pleasing stone reredos, by Benjamin Grassby, that features the dove of Christ's baptism together with wheat and grapes, symbolising the communion, and passion flowers, symbolising the passion.

The font is medieval, but supported on more modern shafts.

An exceptionally peaceful church.