Guiting Power - St Michael's and all Angels

About

The church was built in the 12th century, but the only substantial remains from this period are a pair of Norman doorways. The chancel is late 12th century, and in the 15th century the west tower was added and the nave raised. A burgeoning population in the 19th century meant that the church needed to be expanded, and in 1820 a north transept was added, followed by a south transept in 1844.

The most impressive features are the north and south doorways, both early Norman. The north doorway is blocked, but you can still see the chevron decoration and billet and star carvings. The main south doorway is a very impressive piece of Norman architecture. It is not in its original position, but has been moved to its present location in the south transept.

Inside the church is a 15th century octagonal font decorated with quatrefoils. The pulpit is a relatively recent addition, made of Caen stone in the 20th century, but standing atop a 15th century base. There is a George III royal coat of arms above the south door.

Don't miss a wooden plaque behind the altar, dated 1601 and depicting Christ carrying the cross. The nave roof spans 3 bays and has some original 15th century timbers. Look for the boss carved with a bearded man. On the south wall of the chancel is a brass memorial plaque dated 1712, and in the nave is a marble tablet to Lieutenant Wenman Wynnialt, who drowned in 1842.

The Saxon Coffin - One of the most intriguing features is a tiny Saxon sarcophagus sitting on the steps of the west tower, obviously intended for a very young child. This is probably the smallest Saxon stone coffin in England and I dare you to see it without feeling a tiny lump in your throat! The sarcophagus remarkably retains its original lead lining.

St Michael's is a beautiful country church in an idyllic setting in one of the Cotswold's prettiest villages.