St Mary Redcliffe Church Bristol: Guided Tour

Discover the Gothic Grandeur of St Mary Redcliffe Church in Bristol

The guided tour of St Mary Redcliffe Church offers an engaging 1.5-hour journey through one of England’s most admired ecclesiastical buildings. Priced at just $8.08 per person, this experience provides access to areas normally closed to the public, including the Chatterton Room, a space associated with Bristol’s famous poet Thomas Chatterton. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who reveal the church’s 800-year history, its breathtaking architecture, and its ties to royalty, merchants, artists, and poets.

This tour is ideal for visitors interested in medieval art, gothic architecture, and maritime history. While most of the church is accessible, the Chatterton Room requires climbing a 75-step spiral staircase, which might be a consideration for some. The experience promises a fascinating glimpse into Bristol’s heritage, with plenty of details to satisfy history buffs and architecture lovers alike.

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Key Points

• Price: Only $8.08 per person for a 90-minute guided tour
• Duration: 1.5 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability
• Highlights: Access to hidden spaces and medieval graffiti
• Architectural marvel: Focus on the Perpendicular Gothic architecture and the vaulted ceilings
• Historical significance: Connections to Queen Elizabeth I, John Cabot, and William Canynges II
• Family friendly: Most of the tour is accessible, but the Chatterton Room involves stairs

The Unique Setting of the North Porch and Exterior Carvings

The tour begins at the North Porch, a hexagonal structure dating from the 12th and 13th centuries that served historically as the main chapel and housed a shrine to the Virgin Mary. Here, visitors can admire the intricate stone carvings decorating the outside of the porch, which hold both artistic and symbolic significance.

Standing outside, you’ll get a clear view of the famous tower and spire that define the Bristol skyline. The exterior features mysterious stone carvings, which reflect the church’s medieval craftsmanship. This introduction sets the tone for the architectural grandeur found inside, making it a perfect start for those keen on historic stonework.

Inside the Church: Medieval Art and Architectural Features

Stepping inside, the guide highlights Bristol’s maritime legacy with the C15th-century whalebone representing John Cabot’s 1497 voyage of discovery. Visitors also see a model of The Matthew, the ship on which Cabot sailed, displayed above the main entrance.

The In St John’s Chapel showcases medieval stained glass windows from the 14th century, demonstrating the church’s artistic craftsmanship. The vaulted ceiling, adorned with over 1200 carved roof bosses, showcases the perpendicular Gothic style that characterizes the building’s architecture. The soaring pillars contribute to a sense of grandeur and verticality typical of this period.

The Enigmatic Medieval Knight Effigy in the North Transept

The North Transept features a mysterious effigy of an early medieval knight, whose identity remains uncertain. Historically linked to Robert de Berkeley, who provided the water supply in 1190, the effigy might predate the church itself. This figure offers a glimpse into medieval funerary art and the church’s connection to influential local families.

The effigy’s age and anonymity add a layer of intrigue, making it a highlight for those interested in medieval monuments and the stories they silently tell.

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Exploring the Lady Chapel and Medieval Stained Glass

The C14th Lady Chapel is notable for its gothic screen and stained glass windows designed by Harry Stammers in the 1960s. The chapel’s architecture exemplifies the Gothic style with elegant stonework and vibrant glasswork, creating a serene space that contrasts with the bustling city outside.

This part of the church offers a peaceful retreat and a chance to appreciate medieval craftsmanship and Gothic design, especially in the context of Bristol’s historical wealth and religious life.

The Tomb of William Canynges II and Merchant Wealth

In the South Transept, visitors find the polychrome stone tomb of William Canynges II, a prominent MP and Mayor of Bristol. Canynges played a crucial role in rebuilding the church after lightning struck the spire, which caused significant damage in the 15th century.

His tomb, along with the one of his wife Joan, exemplifies the wealth and influence of Bristol’s medieval merchant princes. The Canynges family’s contributions are a testament to the city’s historical prosperity and the church’s importance as a symbol of civic pride.

Artworks, Carvings, and Medieval Graffiti

Throughout the church, the guide draws attention to the extensive collection of carvings, effigies, and monuments. Many of these artworks have survived for 800 years, including medieval graffiti and merchant marks hidden on the walls—recently uncovered treasures that add to the layers of history within the building.

These features give a tangible sense of the people who worshiped and worked here over the centuries, making the church not just a monument of architecture but a living record of Bristol’s past.

Hidden Spaces and the Chatterton Room

One of the tour’s most exclusive features is access to hidden spaces like the Chatterton Room, located high above the North Porch. Named after Thomas Chatterton, a pivotal figure in Romantic Literature, this space is accessible only via a spiral staircase with 75 steps.

This room offers an unusual perspective of the church’s architecture and an intimate connection to Bristol’s literary history. However, visitors should note that the staircase might be challenging for those with mobility issues, and most of the main tour takes place on level ground within the church.

Practical Details: Meet, End, and Accessibility

The tour begins at the main entrance near the visitor’s desk inside the church and concludes back at the same point, making it easy to incorporate into a day of sightseeing. The most of the tour is conducted in accessible areas, but access to the Chatterton Room requires climbing stairs.

Booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, and paying later allows for planning with confidence. The tour is conducted in English and offers a great balance between detailed history and visual spectacle.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This guided tour of St Mary Redcliffe is a compelling experience for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and those interested in Bristol’s maritime and civic history. The knowledgeable guides enhance the visit with stories about famous figures and the church’s development over centuries.

While the price is affordable, and most of the church is accessible, the stairs to the Chatterton Room might limit participation for some. Still, the overall experience provides insights that are not available to casual visitors and makes for a memorable cultural outing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for visitors with limited mobility?
Most of the tour takes place on level ground, but access to the Chatterton Room involves climbing a 75-step spiral staircase. Visitors with mobility challenges should consider this before booking.

How long does the tour last?
The guided tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers a guided walking tour of the church, including access to hidden spaces and medieval artifacts. It also features information about the church’s history, architecture, and notable associations.

Can I cancel or reschedule my reservation?
Yes, bookings are fully cancellable up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later for added flexibility.

What makes this tour stand out compared to other church visits?
The opportunity to explore hidden spaces like the Chatterton Room and see medieval graffiti and artworks that are not normally accessible makes this tour especially memorable for those wanting an in-depth understanding of Bristol’s historic church.

This thorough look at the St Mary Redcliffe Church guided tour highlights its architectural beauty, historical depth, and unique access to parts of the church most visitors do not see. It offers a valuable, well-priced experience that caters to a wide range of interests, making it a must-consider for anyone exploring Bristol’s historic sites.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby