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Teddington, St. Nicholas
The oldest part of the building is the chancel arch, similar to
examples in the famous Saxon church at Deerhurst. The west end
has been improved with materials thought to have been removed from
Halles Abbey after the Dissolution of the monasteries. This fine Cromwellian pulpit, dated 1655 and bearing the names
of the church wardens, is another interesting feature of this very
well maintained church. Also of note is the mural of the arms of
William and Mary covering much of one wall. |
Bishop’s Cleeve, St Michael & All
Angels
A beautiful church of Saxon origin, rebuilt by the Normans
in 1170, with later additions. The nave, transepts, porch and porch
room are Norman. There is a long 13th century chancel - extended
to accommodate priests from the nearby priory. Some points of interest:-
a Norman chest scooped from a solid log; a Jacobean minstrel's
gallery; the consecration stone in the north aisle; a 15th century
wooden staircase to the tower; a double piscina beside the Delabere
monument. Outside is some fine Norman carving. |
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Little Washbourne, St. Mary
This tiny 12h century church consists only of nave, chancel and
bell turret. The most distinctive feature of the interior is the
18th century furnishing, including a fine altar table, pulpit and
box pews. Its isolated position, surrounded by orchards and lovely
views, is extremely beautiful and well worth a visit. The church is now administered by the Redundant Churches Fund.
Keys are held by the 'Hobnails Inn' and the Alderton Garage. |
Cleeve Hill, St. Peter
An unpretentious
but atmospheric building in simple Gothic style, about 100 yards
above the Rising Sun Hotel. It was dedicated in 1907 to 'serve
the needs of the members of the Church of England on the hill'.
The view from the church garden is breath taking. Keys can be
obtained from 'Hilltop' - next door, or 'The Steps' next but
one. |
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Southam, The Ascension
This Norman church was sacked in 1536-39 and not restored until
the early 1800's by Lord Ellenborough of Southam-de-la-Bere. Used
by the village then and in the 1900's when the Ratcliff family
moved into De-la-Bere. It was not passed over to the Diocese until
1957. There is a 10.30 a.m. service every Sunday. Points of interest
include:- a Norman abacus over the door; a Flemish painting; a
carved panel over the Renaissance misericord stalls; a small window
in the chancel from Halles Abbey. Key obtainable from 01242 5202741
or 01242 34536. |
Alstone, St. Margaret
Dating from the 12th century this church was subject
to extensive repairs in the 13th and again the 17th centuries.
Possibly the most striking feature of this pretty village church
is the chancel arch with its 12th century columns. There is a fine
12th century south door with the distinctive pattern
of the chancel arch repeated on the door shafts and lintel. Also
worthy of note is the window in the south wall containing fragments
of medieval glass. |
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Oxenton, St. John the
Baptist
The church dates from the 13th century and was restored
in 1905. The font and oak benches are 14th century. The tower and
chancel date from the 15th century - the latter retaining some
original roof beams. There is a memorial and mausoleum tot he Earl
of Ellenborough. Remains of three superimposed layers of wall paintings
are exposed on the south wall, the latest being a rare example
of the Ten Commandments on a hinged book. Today the church is well
used, having frequent, well attended services, alternating with
Woolstone. |
Woolstone, St. Martin de Tours
The
15th century tower has a distinct lean, and has been underpinned
to prevent further movement. The oldest of the six bells is dated
1678. The octagonal font and window in the south wall of the
nave are both 15th century. The well-preserved east window is the
oldest in the church, its memorial glass dated 1907. On either
side are niches, one having a fine perpendicular (15th c.) canopy.
In the sanctuary lies the effigy of an unknown priest in mass robes.
The church now serves the villages of Gotherington, Woolstone and
Oxenton and is frequently too small for the numbers attending. |
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