Church of St John the Baptist, Mongewell
Oxfordshire
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About this Church
A romantic ruin by the Thames
This romantic partial ruin is set in attractive grounds on the east bank of the Thames, in the grounds of the former Carmel College. The Ridgeway Path passes close to the church making it a pleasant place to stop during a walk.
It now consists of a small chancel of Norman origin, ruined nave walls and a slender west brick tower dating from Shute Barrington's picturesque Gothic restoration in the late eighteenth century.
In the chancel are two lively early eighteenth-century monuments including an exotic sculptured tomb featuring 'a man of sensibility'; reclining in Eastern costume and a turban.
Access information
Please follow signage and footpath markers through the grounds of the former Carmel College. It is 400 metres on foot on a tarmac drive to a leafy entrance to the churchyard and level access to the south porch door. There are 4 steps down to the nave.
Facilities & Hire
This church has been hired for choir performances, photo shoots and filming. Whilst this building semi ruined church is an amazing atmospheric location, please note that due to the historic nature of our buildings there is no heating, running water or toilet facilities at this site.
For enquiries please contact Local Community Officer Isobel Milne imilne@thecct.org.uk
- Church Available for Hire
History & Further Information
Why not make your visit more enjoyable and informed by finding out more about this church before you visit? You can download a range of publications below including the relevant county guide, and any walk round guides we have for this church.
Berkshire Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire County Guide 2012
This free of charge short guide contains details of all the churches we care for in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire . Printed copies of the county guide are also available at the church.
- Church of St John Mongewell Guidebook
Directions
2.5 miles south of Wallingford via A4074 Portway road; take right turn immediately after junction with A4130 Nosworthy Way; track leads to Mongewell Park (former Carmel College); go through grounds to River Thames; church/ruin near to river
Transport
Nearest railway station: Cholsey (4 miles). Oxfordshire Traveline: 0870 608 2608
Community Information
Click on the link below to download a copy of the church plan which sets out the shared vision for the future of the church.
Church of St John Mongewell Church Plan 2023
Church plans are a living document which combines information on the church’s history and its current use, outlines maintenance and repair needs, combines this with feedback and recommendations from the community, and concludes with an action plan setting out agreed short, medium and long term goals to support the sustainable use and care of the church.
This is a working document that will be updated on a regular basis. If you have any feedback or if you want to contact us about the church plan please drop us a line. When you write, please do give the name of the church, thank you!
