St John the Baptist

After passing the splendid churchyard yew (over 1,000 years old), the latched door in the 14th century porch opens to reveal a church with a wall painting of St Christopher.

Thorpe Mandeville, Northamptonshire

Opening times

Unfortunately, it is not possible to open the church on a daily basis.
If you wish to ensure the church will be open, please get in touch.
Ramps are available for disabled access by prior arrangement.

Address

Banbury Lane
Thorpe Mandeville
Northamptonshire
OX17 2HR

This small 14th century village church in rolling Northamptonshire countryside has Grade I listed status.

Interesting features include a pack saddle tower roof and looking carefully at the east side of the tower one can see a carved stone figure.

The interior has perhaps inevitable 19th century restorations with pleasing doors to nave pews. The 14th century wall painting of St Christopher is in fact three superimposed paintings. In addition to a carved wooden altar with Russian painted panelling, the chancel has a 14th century piscina and an aumbry, probably with it's original door. There is also a decorated low side window near a former priest's doorway. The north aisle has interesting 19th century scholastic stained glass windows.

The carved stone monument to Thomas Kirton (died 1601) depicts him, his wife and their twelve children, infancy deaths being depicted by cradles. There is little doubt that the church has connections with the Puritan pioneer John Mayo, one of the first settlers in Barnstable, Cape Cod, who was the first pastor of the Second Church of Boston 'The Old North Church'.

  • Captivating architecture

  • Enchanting atmosphere

  • Famous connections

  • Fascinating churchyard

  • Glorious furnishings

  • Magnificent memorials

  • Spectacular stained glass

  • Dog friendly

  • On street parking at church

  • Parking within 250m

  • Space to secure your bike

  • Walkers & cyclists welcome

  • Church of England

Contact information

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