St Peter and St Paul, Checkendon

St. Peter and St. Paul is a stone church with Norman architecture from the 12th century, featuring a chancel, semicircular apse, and nave with aisles. Later rebuilding added Gothic windows and a west tower that shaped the building over centuries.

The church's earliest sections date to 1150, with the basic structure retaining Norman foundations. During the Middle Ages, Gothic windows were added and the west tower was built, reshaping the building multiple times.

The wooden roof bosses in the nave were carved by local people under the guidance of artist Eric Kennington. These handcrafted details show how the community has personally shaped the space over time.

The church is active as part of the Langtree Team Ministry and provides access to parish records through the Oxfordshire Record Office. Visitors should note that opening times may vary by season and it is best to check in advance.

Hidden beneath plaster in the apse are 14th-century wall paintings showing Christ in Glory with Peter, Paul, and other apostles. These images were concealed during Victorian times and reveal an important piece of medieval artistic decoration.

Location: Checkendon

Inception: 12 century

GPS coordinates: 51.54300,-1.04600

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:40