Stretten was part of Derbyshire historically. It was mentioned in the Doomsday Book as containing a mill and 10 acres (40,000 m2) of meadow and belonging to Henry de Ferrers and being worth fifteen shillings. There is archaeological evidence to suggest that the current hamlet was larger than it is today.
The church is maintained by the Redundant Churches Fund with money provided by Parliament and the Church of England, and by the gifts of the public. Although no longer used for regular worship, it remains a consecrated building.
The name Stretton indicates that it is a settlement near to a Roman Road.