St Mary

C12 boarded door with original half-moon hinges, in flat-headed opening, columns each side, with remains of holy water stoop projecting on right: scalloped capitals with volutes.

late C17 segmental-headed window for pulpit with leaded lights.

Three late C17, early C18 headstones against wall below.

Nave: semi-circular headed wide C17 window, chamfered edge, original iron opening light.

On quoin to main south buttress inscription commemorates John Prescott, died 1693.

Trefoil-headed piscina by pulpit.

TH 1670 carved on one pilaster, 1671 on one joist: traces of painting on joists.

Roof above original C12 rafters, high collars with 2 vertical struts, housings for original low collars (slightly above present ceiling) and 3 hangers: angle strut now each side.

Frescoes: most complete sequence in England to chancel, c1130-40: each side 6 apostles in niches, chequer work on window reveals, architectural feature over.

Nave: two periods on south wall, one above other: chequer pattern and possibly doom on east wall, wheel of life on north, with figures to east (probably C14).

Pulpit semi-octagonal wooden, either Jacobean or 1913: single C17 pews at rear.

Font, plain circular bowl on stem, brought from Blaisdon 1913.

Marble wall monument, 1722, to Pyndar family, Doric pilasters, cornice, urn and lamps, gadrooning and consoles: late C17 monument by door.

Glass in east window by Kempe C14 chest.

Norman church, tower added C13, porch C14.

Wall paintings discovered in 1872 by John Middleton, restored 1950's by Mrs. E. Baker.

Through the doorway inside the bell tower and you find yourself inside the ancient interior of St. Mary's church in Kempley, complete with Medieval wall paintings and a timber roof in the nave that dates from the 12th century.

© Fabian Musto