Down Ampney All Saints church in Gloucestershire was established in 1265 by the Knights Templar. It is an imposing structure, though much of its atmosphere can be traced back to a victorian rebuilding when the chancel and south transept were extensively renewed. A lot however remains to link the church firmly with its history.
(Down Ampney All Saints, Gloucestershire, from South)
The lower stages of the tower are closely associated with the original building of the church, with the spire being added during the 14'th century. The porch was probably added at the same time as the spire. Internally the lighting is generally subdued, perhaps doing few favours to the internal fittings and decoration, of particular note is the oak screens to the nave and south transept which date from the victorian restoration. The screens to the north transept (though also of victorian origins) incorporates Jacobean panelling.
(Down Ampney All Saints, Gloucestershire, general view of nave)
(Down Ampney All Saints, Gloucestershire, view through chancel screen into chancel)
In the south transept is the tomb Nicholas de Valers and his wife. Nicholas de Valers was one of Templar knights in the last crusade and is associated with the foundation of the church. The north transept incorporates another tomb and chapel.
(Down Ampney All Saints, tomb of Nicholas De Valers and that of his wife in South transept)
(Down Ampney All Saints, North transept)
In more recent history the church was the living of the father of Ralph Vaughan Williams, and the composer was born in the nearby vicarage. One of his popular hymn tunes is dedicated to the village. The church incorporates a display commemorating this association.
Sighted in a well kept graveyard adjacent to the manor house with mature trees around. This church is usually open.
Photographed during September 2011 for theChurchPhotographer by Nick Temple-Fry.
