In the 13thc the church was rebuilt throughout in the Early English style, and in the later centuries additions were made in the Decorated and Perpendicular styles. Victorian improvements were also carried out under Gilbert Scott. The church is 152 feet long, with a crossing tower and spire and transepts, and a chancel with aisles. The original Norman features are architectural and sculptural fragments in the North and South walls. Pevsner notes that a close study of these fragments may yield quite some information on the lavish appointment of the predecessor of the 13thc church.

The Domesday Book records that Wirksworth possessed a priest and a church. The church was annexed to the deanship of Lincoln Cathedral, which was in the patronage of the bishop of Lincoln. It was the dean who presented to the vicarage. The church was worth £70 in 1292.

These fragments suggest a Romanesque church with extensive ornament, at least one door and perhaps a corbel table. The fragments seem to suggest a mid-12thc date.