The original church was probably constructed in the 14th century. Arches from the interior of this building were removed in the 18th century to form an eye-catcher in the grounds of Shobdon Court, the Bateman family home. The Shobdon Arches, as they are known, have subsequently "weathered disastrously." Between 1749 and 1752, John Bateman undertook a complete rebuilding in the Gothic Revival style. The architect is unknown. Bateman's uncle was a friend of Horace Walpole and many members of their circle have been suggested as possible designers, including William Kent, Daniel Garrett, Stephen Wright, John Vardy, Richard Bentley, William Robinson and Henry Flitcroft. Jenkins himself favours Richard Bentley. The style is clearly influenced by the contemporary Strawberry Hill House and the works of Batty Langley.
