Church of St Nicholas, Bathampton

Church of St Nicholas stands between the River Avon and the Kennet and Avon Canal, occupying a riverside position that shapes the village landscape. The 15th-century tower with its six bells and the interior chapels and spaces define the building's structure and character.

The original church was established around 1200 and remained under Bath Abbey's administration until the Reformation fundamentally changed its governance. Major rebuilding work in the 15th century transformed its appearance and structure.

The Australia Chapel displays flooring made from Australian marble, wooden kneelers from Tasmania, and stained glass showing state emblems from across Australia. These details reflect how this parish church maintained connections to the British colonial world.

The location between the river and canal makes it a natural stop during a walk along either waterway and its surroundings. Access and viewing hours are limited, so it is worth checking ahead and allowing time to explore the grounds properly.

The churchyard holds the grave of Admiral Arthur Phillip, who led the first British colonial settlement in Australia starting in 1788. His burial here in 1814 reflects how important this parish was to figures connected to British expansion overseas.

Location: Bathampton

Inception: 13 century

Website: https://stnicholasbathampton.org.uk

GPS coordinates: 51.39750,-2.32167

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:00