St Helen's Church
St Helen's Church, West St Helen Street, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 5BS
There has been a church on the site since the C10th or earlier. The present church dates from the C13th but over subsequent centuries several aisles were added by bequests from local guilds and families so that, unusually, it is now considerably wider than it is long. The panorama of stained glass windows is lovely but the church's most special feature is the very rare ceiling paintings in the 14th century Lady Chapel.
For Heritage Weekend we will have special exhibitions about the people who work and worked here over hundreds of years.
On Saturday 19th we will also have:
• Visits to the bell tower, regular tours in small groups from 2pm to 4pm. See the bells and learn about bellringing. Please note there are 34 steps up a spiral staircase to the ringing chamber and another 34 steps up to the bells. Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult. The parapet is not accessible.
• Organ “have a go”. Are you an organist who would like to try out your favourite pieces on our wonderful historic instrument? Or someone who has never played the organ but wants to discover the King of Instruments? The organ console will be open from 2pm to 4pm on Saturday for anyone who would like to have a go, with some guidance from our organist.
• A self-guided quiz and children’s craft activities
• Refreshments: bacon butties and tea, coffee and cake
On Sunday 20th the church will be open for open visiting 12-4pm.
Also for Sung Eucharist 10.30am and Choral Evensong 5.30pm - all welcome.
Timings
- Saturday 19 September:
- 10.00 - 16.00
- Sunday 20 September:
- 12.00 - 16.00
Location & directions
St Helen's Church, West St Helen Street, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 5BS
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
No parking at the church, but there is a public car park very close by. The church itself is fully accessible, but the bell tower is not suitable for those with limited mobility.
Additional information
Stewards will be available in the church on the day to enhance the visitor experience.
