The church is a notable example of late Perpendicular architecture.  This is due to building by the lord of the manor, Sir John Gostwick, during the reign of Henry VIII. A sympathetic Victorian restoration by the architect, Henry Clutton, for a later lord of the manor, the ninth Duke of Bedford, retained the overall appearance. That said, you can still see parts of an earlier medieval church as well as the additions and alterations that have been made over the years.

Sir John Gostwick was an important official in the reign of Henry VIII and hosted a visit by the king to Willington in 1541. A notable feature of Gostwick's building work is the chapel, which contains his tomb and other family monuments. The fine alabaster monument of Sir William Gostwick is by the renowned sculptor, Maximilian Colt. 

In 1166 Newnham Priory was allocated the responsibility of appointing clergy to Willington. The earliest one recorded is Nicholas de Wileton in 1229. 

Further information can be found in guides in the church, where you can also buy a book entitled "The Parish of St Lawrence, Willington, its Church and Vicars" by Gordon Vowles.