A church existed on the site in Anglo-Saxon times. St Peter´s Church built on the site of this older structure, dates from the 12th century.

The church is built of limestone rubble and has a stone slate roof. The masonry has herringbone work. The plan consists of a nave with a south transept, a porch to the north, and a chancel to the east. The north entrance is Norman-style.

The north and south nave walls each have a window dating from the 12th century, and a later two-light window from the 19th century. The nave also has a three-light Perpendicular style window with tracery.

The Rev. John Keble was vicar of St Peter's from 1823 to 1825. During his time at Southrop, he found a Norman-style circular baptismal font in the church wall.