St Mary Redcliffe Church in Bristol is a true architectural marvel, a stunning blend of Gothic and medieval styles that has captivated visitors for centuries. Its construction began in the 12th century, and the centuries-long effort has resulted in exquisite stone carvings, a magnificent vaulted ceiling, and a captivating North Porch that once served as a chapel. As you step inside, you’ll discover the church’s maritime connections, a medieval knight’s effigy, and a 14th-century Lady Chapel – but the real gem lies hidden, accessible only by a 75-step spiral staircase. Prepare to be transported back in time as you uncover the secrets of this architectural masterpiece.
This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Bristol.
Key Points
- The guided tour of St Mary Redcliffe Church offers an in-depth exploration of its captivating blend of Gothic and medieval architectural styles.
- Visitors can discover the church’s unique hexagonal North Porch, which served as a primary chapel and showcases intricate carvings and tracery work.
- The guided tour provides insights into the church’s rich maritime heritage, including a whalebone representing John Cabot’s 1497 voyage across the Atlantic.
- Visitors can see the medieval knight’s effigy in the North Transept and learn about the church’s prominent patrons and their influence.
- The tour includes access to the Chatterton Room, which offers a unique opportunity to explore a normally closed-off space associated with the Romantic poet Thomas Chatterton.
Overview of the Church
St Mary Redcliffe is widely regarded as one of the finest churches in England, boasting a rich history that spans over seven centuries.
Construction of this architectural marvel began in the 12th century and continued for centuries, resulting in a captivating blend of Gothic and medieval styles.
The church’s grandeur hasn’t gone unnoticed, with Queen Elizabeth I famously describing it as ‘the fairest, goodliest, and most famous parish church in England.’
Today, visitors can explore the church’s remarkable features, from the exquisite stone carvings on the porch exterior to the magnificent vaulted ceiling adorned with over 1,200 intricate roof bosses, offering a glimpse into the church’s illustrious past.
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Unique North Porch
Descending the church’s main entrance and passing through the grand South Porch, visitors are greeted by the unique hexagonal North Porch, which once served as the primary chapel.
This architectural gem showcases exquisite stone carvings, including:
- Intricate floral and geometric patterns adorning the exterior
- Carved grotesque figures, like gargoyles, peering down from the roofline
- Delicate tracery work in the pointed arched windows
Once the hub of medieval church life, this captivating porch offers a glimpse into St Mary Redcliffe’s storied past, inviting visitors to imagine the generations of worshippers who’ve passed through its doors over the centuries.
Historical Sea Connections
The church’s historical connections with the sea are evident throughout, including a whalebone representing John Cabot’s famous 1497 voyage across the Atlantic. This symbolic artifact commemorates the pioneering explorer’s journey from Bristol, which established England’s claim to North America.
Plus, the church’s proximity to the River Avon and the bustling maritime trade of medieval Bristol have deeply influenced its history and architecture. Visitors can explore these nautical links, gaining insight into the church’s role as a hub for mariners, merchants, and seafaring communities.
From its prominent location overlooking the river to its intricate carvings and memorials, St Mary Redcliffe offers a window into Bristol’s proud maritime heritage.
Magnificent Vaulted Ceiling
One of the church’s most breathtaking features is its magnificent vaulted ceiling, which soars overhead with over 1,200 intricately carved roof bosses. These ornate stone carvings, each unique in design, adorn the expansive and visually stunning nave, evoking a sense of grandeur and spiritual majesty that has captivated visitors for centuries.
The vaulted ceiling is a true architectural marvel, showcasing the incredible skill and craftsmanship of the medieval builders:
- The ceiling’s intricate ribbed design creates a sense of elegance and sophistication.
- The carved bosses depict a wide variety of subjects, from religious symbols to natural motifs.
- The scale and complexity of the vaulted ceiling is a testament to the church’s architectural ambition and cultural significance.
North Transept and Knight’s Effigy
Visitors exploring the church’s North Transept will encounter a mysterious medieval knight’s effigy, its weathered features and intricate stone carving offering a captivating glimpse into the church’s storied past. The effigy is thought to depict one of the church’s medieval patrons, its positioning within the church hinting at their importance and influence. Examining the figure’s attire and posture provides insight into the fashions and warrior culture of the era. Nearby, visitors can admire the elegant gothic architecture of the North Transept, its vaulted ceiling and ornate stonework reflecting the skill and artistry of the church’s medieval builders.
Effigy Detail | Description |
---|---|
Attire | Plate armour, surcoat |
Pose | Reclining, hands clasped |
Location | North Transept |
Date | 14th century |
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14th-century Lady Chapel
Within the north side of the church, visitors will discover the exquisite 14th-century Lady Chapel, its gothic architecture and stained glass windows providing a tranquil haven for reflection and meditation.
The chapel’s ornate stone screen and intricate vaulted ceiling showcase the skilled craftsmanship of the medieval masons who constructed this sacred space.
Key features include:
- Beautifully preserved gothic tracery and stone carvings adorning the chapel’s walls and arches
- Vibrant stained glass windows depicting religious imagery and biblical scenes
- A polychrome stone altar tomb believed to be that of a prominent local merchant or nobleman
Exploring the Lady Chapel offers a chance to step back in time and appreciate the church’s rich medieval heritage.
Polychrome Altar Tomb
The polychrome stone altar tomb within the Lady Chapel is believed to be that of a prominent local merchant or nobleman, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship and attention to detail of the medieval masons who constructed this sacred space.
The tomb’s vibrant colors, intricate carvings, and ornate design suggest the high status and wealth of the individual it commemorates. Visitors can admire the exquisite artistry of the memorial, which includes a recumbent effigy atop the altar chest.
The tomb’s placement within the Lady Chapel, a space dedicated to the Virgin Mary, also highlights the individual’s piety and importance within the church community.
This polychrome masterpiece stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural splendor of St Mary Redcliffe.
Chatterton Room Access
One can access the Chatterton Room via a 75-step spiral staircase. This tucked-away space is associated with the Romantic poet Thomas Chatterton, who’d a complex and tragic connection to St Mary Redcliffe Church.
The tour includes a visit to this room, allowing visitors to explore the heritage and history surrounding Chatterton’s life and work.
It’s normally closed to the public, making the guided tour a unique opportunity to access this special space.
Chatterton was a local poet who tragically died at the age of 17, leaving behind a remarkable literary legacy.
The room provides insight into Chatterton’s relationship with the church and the inspiration he drew from its medieval architecture and history.
Recap
St Mary Redcliffe Church in Bristol is a marvel of Gothic and medieval architecture.
The church’s centuries-long construction has resulted in stunning features, from the exquisite North Porch to the magnificent vaulted ceiling.
Visitors can explore the church’s maritime connections, the medieval knight’s effigy, the 14th-century Lady Chapel, and the unique Chatterton Room, offering a glimpse into the life of the Romantic poet.
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