St James Church, Badsey
High Street, Badsey, Evesham, Worcestershire, WR11 7EJ
Although Badsey belonged to Evesham Abbey from Saxon times, there was no stone church here until the 12th century. The chancel was added in 1295, closely followed by the transept. The tower followed a century later. No major changes were made until a restoration of the church was undertaken in 1885 when a new south aisle, porch and vestry were added. The churchyard contains several Commonwealth war graves, and visitors will be able to look at biographies of each soldier, and of other WW1 soldiers buried at Badsey. There is a memorial to a wealthy Elizabethan called Richard Hoby who was buried at Badsey in 1617, and to his wife Margaret. Richard was part of a well-connected family and at one time lived in the Manor House.
Tours of the bell tower will be conducted by members of Badsey Bellringers. As well as a fine peal of six bells, the tower also contains a wide variety of medieval graffiti which was discovered during a survey by members of the Badsey Society.
When visitors have finished looking around the church and churchyard, they will be able to explore the villages of Badsey using the Badsey and Aldington trail. This uses QR codes accessible via smartphones to give short pieces of information about the villages, their buildings and history, and flora and fauna. Visitors can determine their own route. This is suitable for people of all ages.
Timings & Tours
- Saturday 07 September:
- 10.00 - 16.00
- Sunday 08 September:
- 10.00 - 16.00
Location & directions
High Street, Badsey, Evesham, Worcestershire, WR11 7EJ
- Contact on day:
- Shirley Tutton
- Telephone number:
- +447740286941
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
There are steps up from the High Street, but level access is available from the lych gate entrance on Chapel Street. All areas of the church are accessible with the exception of the bell tower.
Additional information
- Max no of people per tour:
- 25
