Saxon Church of St Laurence in Bradford-on-Avon

The date of construction of the Saxon Church of St Laurence (see below) in Bradford-on-Avon is the subject of much debate.

History

Estimates range from the early eighth century AD (the church may have been founded by Saint Aldhelm around 700 AD) to the mid-eleventh century.

Written evidence suggests that the building should be dated to the early eighth century. However, stylistically, the late tenth or early eleventh century is more likely.

Today, the church is recognized as one of the gems of Anglo-Saxon architecture still standing in the UK.

Saxon Church of St Laurence in Bradford-on-Avon

Saxon Church of St Laurence, Bradford-on-Avon

The Saxon history of the church was recognized in 1856 by Canon Jones, Vicar of Bradford during some repairs on the building when he discovered the ‘Bradford Angels’ (see below).

Interior of the church

Access – Getting There

The church is located on Church Street in Bradford-on-Avon.

Bradford on Avon is located on the A363 about a 20-minute drive from Bath. Bradford on Avon Station is also easily accessible via a 15-minute railway journey from Bath. London is around a two-hour drive or a 90-minute train ride from Bath.

Trains to Frome take about 25 minutes from Bradford on Avon.

Nearby

Visitors to Bradford-on-Avon may also want to view the adjacent Norman era Holy Trinity Church, or see the nearby Abbey Mill or Town Bridge.

Places to Stay

Serving central Bradford on Avon are at least two inns; the Swan Inn and the Castle Inn. In addition, there are other cottages and converted properties to stay in. There is also a wealth of choices within an easy driving distance of Bradford on Avon. Single rooms in the area start from around £35 per night and range into the hundreds of pounds for more luxurious accommodation.

Bradford-on-Avon Map