St Bartholomew's Church
Cowley Road, Oxford, OX4 2AJ, GB
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Tucked away just off the bustling Cowley Road, the 14th-century St Bartholomew's Chapel, affectionately known as Bartlemas Chapel, offers a remarkable glimpse into Oxford's layered past. Originally founded by Henry I in 1126 as part of a leper hospital, this serene stone building has weathered centuries of change, from providing refuge for the afflicted and a quarantine site during plague outbreaks to its current role as a cherished place of worship within the Parish of Cowley St John. Imagine its grounds, once well outside the city walls, providing solace and later, during the Civil War, witnessing upheaval as parliamentary forces stripped its roof for lead. Despite periods of secular use, including time as a cowshed in the 19th century, the chapel was thoughtfully restored in the early 20th century, preserving its tranquil atmosphere and historical integrity.
Today, this Grade I listed chapel stands as a simple yet striking example of medieval architecture, with its nave and chancel combined under a steep pitched slate roof dating from the 17th century. Visitors can observe the original north doorway with its chamfered arch and 14th-century windows, alongside a distinctive oak chancel screen added in 1651 after Oriel College re-roofed the structure. Though once a site of pilgrimage, housing relics like the comb of Edward the Confessor, its current draw lies in its peaceful seclusion and the palpable sense of history within its ancient walls. The chapel continues to host services, including a monthly Book of Common Prayer Evensong, and occasional concerts, inviting quiet contemplation amidst the echoes of its resilient past.
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+44 1865 792717
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