If you are considering a stay in Meysey Hampton, its historic buildings offer a clear insight into the history of the village. The small Norman Church of St Mary the Virgin and Meysey Hampton Manor provide contrasting architectural features. At St Mary, the stories range from medieval stained glass to memorial art from the early 17th century; the Manor combines a probably late-medieval core with 18th-century alterations.
St Mary: Church, Stained Glass and Memorials
The Church of St Mary the Virgin is a Grade II* listed building and is located in the Meysey Hampton Conservation Area. Its Norman character provides an early historical reference point. It is also home to artworks and monuments that date from, or were altered during, various later periods.
In the south transept is a painted limestone wall monument to Dr James Vaulx, a physician, and his two wives, Editha and Philip. The monument dates from the early 17th century and depicts life-sized figures. Around 1872, it was moved from the chancel to its present location. Its relocation within the church is therefore also part of its history: the monument no longer stands in its original position.
Another group of memorials lies in the churchyard, about 4.5 metres south of the south-east corner of the south transept. It consists of two chest tombs and three limestone headstones. Their precise location and differing forms help distinguish the group from the wall monument inside the church.
The medieval stained-glass fragments are also a special point of interest: they are said to be the oldest stained glass in a parish church in Gloucestershire. Together with the Norman church building and the monument from the early 17th century, they show how many eras come together at St Mary. For information about opening times, contact the church directly.
Meysey Hampton Manor and Its Architectural History
Meysey Hampton Manor has a probably late-medieval core. In the early or mid-18th century, the house was extended and refaced. The two building phases make the Manor’s development a subject in its own right: the surviving core and the later alterations belong to different periods of its history.
The oval staircase is particularly elegant, with its decorative oval skylight. It features a balustrade with stick balusters and a carved string. The design is thought to be by Soane. The interior may not be open to the public, so check in advance whether a visit is possible.
Footpath and Places to Eat
In October 2021, many villagers used the footpath from Meysey Hampton to Poulton to reach The Gilbertine Café or The Masons Arms. If you are planning a tour today, check the current condition of the path locally. Its use at the time provides a specific link to the two named places to eat, but does not replace checking current conditions on the path.
The Masons Arms restaurant serves food daily at 28 High Street, Meysey Hampton, GL7 5JT. As service information can change, check the restaurant’s latest information before visiting.
For the wider travel overview: Cotswolds.
