St Giles Church
10 Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 6HT, GB
Rating: 4.5 ★ (37 ratings)
Details
Located at the meeting point of Woodstock and Banbury Roads, St Giles' Church boasts a history stretching back to its initial construction around 1120, though it wasn't consecrated until 1200 by St Hugh, Bishop of Lincoln. Originally standing in open fields north of Oxford's city wall, this Grade I listed building showcases a blend of Norman, Early English Gothic, and Decorated Gothic architectural styles. Surviving 12th-century features include windows in the nave's clerestory and the lower sections of the bell tower, which was completed in the early 13th century along with the aisle arcades and Early English Gothic lancet windows. The church, found at 10 Woodstock Road, also holds a significant place in local tradition, as the annual St Giles' Fair, still held today, was established to commemorate its consecration over 800 years ago.
Stepping inside, visitors can find intriguing historical remnants, such as the beautifully carved and painted figures representing Henry Bosworth (who died in 1634), his wife Alice, and their children, believed to be from a tomb that did not survive the English Civil War. The church itself endured damage during this turbulent period, with Parliamentary soldiers reportedly held prisoner within its walls in 1643 and burning furniture. Despite numerous restorations over the centuries, including significant Victorian-era work and repairs following the Civil War, the church retains much of its 13th-century character. The impressive 13th-century font near the south door is another notable feature. The church is often open for prayer and quiet reflection, typically from 12pm to 2pm on weekdays, allowing visitors a chance to experience its serene atmosphere and rich past.
Location
Opening Hours
Monday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 5:30 – 6:00 PM; Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 5:30 – 6:00 PM; Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 5:30 – 6:00 PM; Thursday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 5:30 – 6:00 PM; Friday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 5:30 – 6:00 PM; Saturday: 5:30 – 6:00 PM; Sunday: 8:00 – 8:30 AM, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Contact
+44 1865 510460
Comments
Staying at Keble College for a few weeks and thought that I would attend advertised Sunday Evensong at this 'local' church. Bells were ringing at 6pm. Doors firmly closed. Tried ringing vicar on number for from notice board re. when would church open, with no response. Attempted communicating by intercom beside door - choir member responded but was unable to advise of when the church would open for 6.30 Evensong. Door again closed. End of story. My verdict: Not a welcoming place by any stretch of the imagination - 'Jude the Obscure' pub in Jericho far more welcoming to strangers. Alas. The Bells, The Bells...maybe they're ringing a warning and not a welcome?
It is Grade I listed building.
The church was damaged during the siege of Oxford in the Civil War, and in 1643 its furniture was burnt by parliamentary troops who were being held prisoner in the church.
The church was originally well north of the Oxford city wall, and the above print dating from 1834 shows that it was then still in a rural setting.
As Norham and Walton Manors were developed and Summertown grew, the church must have been very full. It lost Summertown when that village got a church of its own in 1834, and when in 1837 St Paul's Church opened, a slice of St Giles' parish became part of its district chapelry. Then in 1863 St Philip & St James (which originally included the present St Margaret's parish) took over a large section of St Giles' parish.
Inside the church there is a fine monument to the former Mayor of Oxford Henry Bosworth that was put up by his wife in 1683.
Victoria County History: St Giles' Church, Oxford
The Bishop of Oxford Samuel Wilberforce wrote as follows about the parishioners of St Giles in his Diocese Book on 26 January 1857:
The mass of shopkeepers are attached to the Church as a respectable profession. No earnestness. The female members valuably aid in District visiting &c. & many more pious. The lower tradesmen very loose as to Church hardly attend except aft[ernoon]. Much good from Miss Hughes & the other Sisters visiting. The poor attached to Church. A great many of the poor go nowhere. Drinking the chief sin amongst the poor, especially am[on]g women.