St Peter's Church, Great Berkhamsted

The Church of St Peter Great Berkhamsted

Richard Torrington

The Torringtons are a family of high standing in the parish during the 14th century. Richard Torrington is often referred to by tradition as “the founder of St Peter’s” – it is probably that they were a wealthy family who funded the major church rebuilding and extension project of the late 14th century. 

Richard Torrington dies in 1356 – in that same year, Edward the Black Prince rides out from Berkhamsted Castle to fight at the Battle of Poitiers. Richard and his wife Margaret Torrington are commemorated on a memorial brass.  They are depicted holding hands, united in their love through death – a very unusual depiction of affection for monumental art of this period.