St John the Baptist's, Baginton
The somewhat elusive St John the Baptist's church in Baginton is at first sight a deceptively simple building, the view on approach from the south-east being that of a modest two-cell structure of nave and chancel with a miniature (and rustically charming) tower and spire perched between the two. Moving around to the opposite side however reveals this building has undergone some extension with no less than two north aisles. Much of the present building is still in essence the original Norman one, albeit with alterations and additions mostly of the 14th century. Everything is built in warm red sandstone, as is the norm in the central and northern parts of Old Warwickshire.
The interior is rather different, both in terms of mostly whitened walls taking the place of the sandstone (and adding considerable lightness to what might otherwise have been a gloomy space) and being quite unlike any other ancient church in the county. From the west end the eye is drawn not to the usual single chancel arch but three of them (technically six as the openings into the chancel beyond are set much lower). The configuration is necessitated by the two central piers being required to support the tiny box-like tower above, while the alcoves on either side may have once contained altars and retain significant patches of ancient wall painting (mainly floral decoration). It is difficult to get much sense of the small chancel beyond until passing through the arches, from where it is revealed as an intimate space full of interest.
The most noteworthy features of the church are to be found adorning the walls of the chancel, with several imposing wall tablets and a very fine early 15th century brass commemorating Sir William Bagot & his wife who once lived in the nearby castle (of which little now remains). There are further patches of wall painting in other parts of the church and the nave retains most of its 18th century furnishings. The Victorian restoration here appears to have had very little impact aside from the Hardman glass in the east window.
Baginton is not the easiest of places to find, being squeezed between the outskirts of Coventry and its airport which adjoins the village. Despite being fairly local to where I grew up this church also eluded me until very recently, being normally kept locked and only open by appointment (my only prior visit ended in disappointment and the wording of the sign discouraged asking for the key without prior arrangement). Being part of a group visit finally gave me the access I wanted, but alas time was limited and the church was swiftly locked up again as we left. It's a shame they don't feel they can open it more often as it is a very rewarding building that deserves more visitors and wider appreciation.
www.baginton-village.org.uk/st-john-the-baptist-history
St John the Baptist's, Baginton
The somewhat elusive St John the Baptist's church in Baginton is at first sight a deceptively simple building, the view on approach from the south-east being that of a modest two-cell structure of nave and chancel with a miniature (and rustically charming) tower and spire perched between the two. Moving around to the opposite side however reveals this building has undergone some extension with no less than two north aisles. Much of the present building is still in essence the original Norman one, albeit with alterations and additions mostly of the 14th century. Everything is built in warm red sandstone, as is the norm in the central and northern parts of Old Warwickshire.
The interior is rather different, both in terms of mostly whitened walls taking the place of the sandstone (and adding considerable lightness to what might otherwise have been a gloomy space) and being quite unlike any other ancient church in the county. From the west end the eye is drawn not to the usual single chancel arch but three of them (technically six as the openings into the chancel beyond are set much lower). The configuration is necessitated by the two central piers being required to support the tiny box-like tower above, while the alcoves on either side may have once contained altars and retain significant patches of ancient wall painting (mainly floral decoration). It is difficult to get much sense of the small chancel beyond until passing through the arches, from where it is revealed as an intimate space full of interest.
The most noteworthy features of the church are to be found adorning the walls of the chancel, with several imposing wall tablets and a very fine early 15th century brass commemorating Sir William Bagot & his wife who once lived in the nearby castle (of which little now remains). There are further patches of wall painting in other parts of the church and the nave retains most of its 18th century furnishings. The Victorian restoration here appears to have had very little impact aside from the Hardman glass in the east window.
Baginton is not the easiest of places to find, being squeezed between the outskirts of Coventry and its airport which adjoins the village. Despite being fairly local to where I grew up this church also eluded me until very recently, being normally kept locked and only open by appointment (my only prior visit ended in disappointment and the wording of the sign discouraged asking for the key without prior arrangement). Being part of a group visit finally gave me the access I wanted, but alas time was limited and the church was swiftly locked up again as we left. It's a shame they don't feel they can open it more often as it is a very rewarding building that deserves more visitors and wider appreciation.
www.baginton-village.org.uk/st-john-the-baptist-history