Of Norman origin, Shirley had extensive alterations and additions in 1842 and 1861, the latter including a new tower. What remains of earlier work, of the early 14th century, is confined to the chancel and south aisle and its arcade to the nave. The 1650 Rector incurred Puritan wrath being described as insufficient and scandalous, probably nothing more reprehensible than continuing with the form of worship, altar, and vestments, of King Charles I's time, and not giving sermons of a protracted length and content acceptable to the new régime.