St Thomas' Church, East Shefford
Berkshire
1 of 4
'A gem in the water meadows.'
About this church
Alabaster nobles and wall paintings in a rural idyll
This simple little church, with pre-Norman origins, stands in an idyllic spot beside a water meadow next to the River Lambourn.
Its village has long since vanished, but the spirit of the villagers shines through in the church's simple craftsmanship, glorious Medieval wallpaintings and fabulous tombs. The alabaster statue of local noble Sir Thomas Fettiplace lies alongside that of his wife and gives a rare glimpse of fifteenth-century fashion.
Look out for the lovely Norman tub font, an early Medieval tomb, and fragments of early stained glass.
Access information
Park outside the large gates to the estate (signposted "church parking"). Walk through the pedestrian gate onto the estate, over the bridge and take the right hand turn at the junction. Access to estate via a standard door width pedestrian gate which leads to a gravelled lane. Access to churchyard is via kissing gate. There are no steps.
Volunteering opportunities
We'd love to hear from anyone with any time to give. All offers of support are very welcome, but we especially need help with events, fundraising and cleaning.
To find out about volunteering in this church please contact the Local Community Officer Victoria Green vgreen@thecct.org.uk
Facilities & hire
You are welcome to hire this church for your event. From music concerts to exhibtions to photo shoots, our churches are home to an array of activities. Due to its historic nature it should be noted there is no running water or toilet facilities so thought needs to be given for events longer than a couple of hours.
- Church available for hire
- Opportunities to volunteer
Directions
2 miles north east of M4 junction 14, off A338 (Wantage Road)
Transport
Nearest railway station: Kintbury (5 miles). Bus route 4.
History & further information
Why not make your visit more enjoyable and informed by finding out more about this church and the CCT before you visit?
You can download a range of publications below including the relevant county guide, and any walk round guides we have for this church.
Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire County Guide.
This free of charge short guide contains details of all the churches CCT cares for in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire . Printed copies of the county guide are also available at the church.
Community information
Click here to download a copy of the Church Plan which sets out the shared vision for the future of the church. This is a working document that will be updated on a regular basis. If you have any feedback or if you want to contact us about the church plan please drop us a line. When you write, please do give the name of the church, thank you!
All our Berkshire churches are in CCT's West region.
