THE SAXONS
There was a Saxon East Window where the present Chancel Arch stands. At some time or other there was a little priest’s room attached to the East end of the Church, perhaps in Norman or medieval days, and traces of its foundations were noted in the underpinning operation connected with the 1969 restoration.
THE NORMANS
NORMAN BUILDING:
The Nave is of Norman origin, and the later restorers preserved four Norman window shapes and the original Norman masonry.
NORMAN DOORWAY
Built within about 50 or 60 years of the coming of William the Conqueror. Note the caned figures, the typical Norman design and motifs, and the well-preserved detail. Look for a piece of “mason’s licence” oddity in the top right mouldings.
Norman string course:
A line of ornamentation running along the wall and bending to clear the doorway. Also on South side.
Norman Windows:
The Nave is of Norman origin, and the later restorers preserved four Norman window shapes and the original Norman masonry. In particular, the 12th century North doorway is a fine example of the craftsmanship of that period.
Roof-trusses:
16th century. Bracketed King-post construction. Inserted when original Norman roof replaced and probably raised.
Walls:
Apparently always free from wall monuments thus giving the clean uncluttered lines.
TOWER
The 16th century Tudor Tower is probably unique in that the wooden uprights rise from the foundations.
The Tudor designer set the uprights close together to give an enhanced impression of height.
INTERIOR
Naturally-curved bracing timbers c.1500 cross at the ceiling and continue on up beyond like gigantic “X”s.
The timbers are well shaped and smoothed by the craftsmens’ adzes whose marks are clearly visible.
The tower has been cleverly designed to be integral with the Church & gives the appearance of one large Nave.
LOCATION
The church of St Mary the Virgin is situated 1 mile from the centre of Upleadon village and is well worth a visit. A booklet is available inside the church and the money raised will go to the Church Restoration Fund.
Within the church is a tapestry produced by the villagers to commemorate the millennium