Guided Tour of St John the Baptist, Inglesham

This exquisitely beautiful and fascinating thirteenth-century church stands on a gentle rise of land above waterside meadows near the Thames. Only a stone's throw from the Thames Path and a short distance from popular Lechlade-on-Thames it is a frequent stopping point for walkers.

Pioneering Victorian designer William Morris - who lived at nearby Kelmscott - oversaw St John's restoration in the nineteenth century to ensure it kept its original medieval identity. An amazing series of wall paintings dating from the 13th to the 19th century cover the walls, a puzzle for modern day visitors. An unusual and powerful Saxon stone carving of the Madonna and Child set in the south wall hints at the true antiquity of this unassuming rural church, which is largely unchanged since the 16th century.

Philippa Wood, a Local Community Officer for the Churches Conservation Trust, will be at the church from 10:30am until 1pm on Saturday 12th September to talk to visitors about this incredible church and about the work of the Trust and volunteering opportunities available, with a guided tour available at 11am (see booking information below).

Family trails will be available in the church from the 12th - 20th September (subject to availability).

Timings

Saturday 12 September:

Tour 11:00

Location & directions

St John the Baptist Church, Inglesham, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN6 7RD

Directions:

Follow brown signs to historic church from A361. Limited parking near church.

Contact on day:

Philippa Wood

Telephone number:

+447872502118

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking preferred

Booking conditions:

Please book tickets online in advance to avoid disappointment. If unable to access the website, please email the address below.

Booking contact name:

Philippa Wood

Booking email:

[email protected]

Booking website:

https://www.visitchurches.org.uk/whats-on/heritage-open-days-tour-of-st-john-the-baptist-inglesham/book

Booking opens:

15 Aug 2026 01:00 PM

Booking closes:

11 Sep 2026 04:00 PM

Accessibility details

Those with limited mobility should note that the church is accessed by 5 steps up to the churchyard and two steps down into the porch. The church has a very worn and uneven flagstone floor.

Additional information

Max number of people:

30

Estimated duration:

0 hour(s) 30 minute(s)

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