There has been a church on this site for over 800 years, with Poole once having been the medieval departure point for those embarking for mainland Europe to proceed on the Camino de Santiago. At the start of the 19th century, with the wealth of the Newfoundland trade, local merchants and dignitaries subscribed to rebuilding the church in the Georgian style, which is what stands today. The church building is an excellent example of Georgian English religious architecture, and has been designated a Grade II listed building by English Heritage.

The church has 10 bells in the bell tower, which are frequently rung on Sundays and special occasions. There is a small churchyard, with predominantly 18th century interments, with a few from the early 1800s. The church then used another burial site at Hunger Hill and, after 1855, the new municipal cemetery at Oakdale.

Unfortunately we do not hold older records at our church, so for any record enquiries, please contact Dorset Records Office on 01305 250550.