Odda's Chapel: A Rare Saxon Treasure in Deerhurst
Discover one of England’s most complete Saxon chapels nestled in the tranquil village of Deerhurst, a hidden gem of medieval heritage.
Odda's Chapel, located in Deerhurst near Gloucester, is one of England's most complete surviving Saxon churches. Built in 1056 by Earl Odda in memory of his brother, it was later incorporated into a farmhouse before being rediscovered in the 19th century. Visitors can explore its distinctive Saxon architecture, including a nearly intact window and a horseshoe-shaped chancel arch, set in a tranquil rural landscape near the River Severn.
A brief summary to Odda's Chapel
- B4213, Gloucester, Deerhurst, GL19 4BX, GB
- +443703331281
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit between April and October for extended opening hours from 10am to 6pm.
- Use the charged car park opposite the chapel; parking is not managed by English Heritage.
- Combine your visit with nearby St Mary's Priory Church to explore more Anglo-Saxon architecture.
- Check local flood warnings as Deerhurst is prone to flooding, which can restrict access.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Gloucester city center takes approximately 25 to 35 minutes via the A40 and B4213. Parking is available opposite Odda’s Chapel in a privately managed car park with a small fee of around £0.50 to £1 depending on duration.
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Bus
Local bus services from Gloucester to Deerhurst run several times daily with a journey time of about 40 to 50 minutes. From the Deerhurst village stop, it is a 10-minute walk along a quiet lane to the chapel. Check current timetables as frequency varies.
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Walking
For walkers on the Severn Way, Odda’s Chapel offers a peaceful break. The path passes nearby, and reaching the chapel involves a short, flat walk of about 10 minutes on rural lanes suitable for most fitness levels.
Odda's Chapel location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Odda's Chapel
Historical Legacy of Odda's Chapel
Odda's Chapel was founded in 1056 by Earl Odda, a relative of Edward the Confessor, as a memorial to his brother Aelfric. This small stone chapel is a rare surviving example of Anglo-Saxon ecclesiastical architecture in England. For centuries, it lay hidden, incorporated into a 17th-century farmhouse known as Abbot’s Court. The nave was repurposed as a kitchen with a fireplace and windows, while the chancel served as a bedroom. It was rediscovered in 1865 by the Reverend George Butterworth, who identified it through historical records and the nearby Odda Stone, a carved Anglo-Saxon artifact.Architectural Features and Design
The chapel is notable for its tall, narrow structure typical of Saxon design. Key features include the alternating long and short quoins (cornerstones), a nearly perfect original oak-framed window on the south side, and a distinctive chancel arch just over 3 meters high with a slight horseshoe shape. The north door remains intact, while the south doorway has been blocked. Traces of the Tudor-era kitchen fireplace remain visible in the west wall. The chancel was extensively altered during its conversion into part of the farmhouse, including the insertion of an upper floor.Setting and Surroundings
Situated in the peaceful village of Deerhurst, the chapel is surrounded by fields near the River Severn, offering a serene rural atmosphere. The nearby St Mary's Priory Church, another Anglo-Saxon architectural gem, complements the visit with its elaborate carvings and sculptures. The area is rich in history, with evidence of a Roman villa nearby, underscoring Deerhurst’s importance through the ages.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Odda's Chapel is open daily from 10am to 6pm in the warmer months and 10am to 4pm in the colder months. Parking is available opposite the chapel via a charged car park managed privately. The chapel is small and easily accessible, allowing visitors to appreciate its quiet charm and historical significance. While there are no onsite food or drink facilities, nearby towns offer amenities. Assistance dogs are permitted, but general dog access is restricted.Preservation and Cultural Importance
Managed by English Heritage, Odda's Chapel represents an invaluable cultural and architectural heritage site. Its survival through centuries of adaptation and neglect speaks to the resilience of Saxon craftsmanship. The chapel provides insight into early medieval religious life and the evolution of church architecture in England. Supporting its upkeep helps preserve this unique link to the past for future generations.Exploring the Wider Area
Visitors often combine a trip to Odda's Chapel with nearby attractions such as St Mary's Church in Deerhurst and the medieval wall paintings at St Mary's Church, Kempley. The scenic Severn Way walking path passes close by, offering a pleasant route along the River Severn. For those interested in medieval history, Goodrich Castle lies about 19 miles away, featuring well-preserved battlements and panoramic views.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Bee Shelter, Hartpury
10.7 km
Discover Hartpury’s unique 19th-century Bee Shelter, a stunning stone monument celebrating Gloucestershire’s rich beekeeping heritage and Victorian craftsmanship.
Eastgate viewing chamber
12.0 km
Discover Gloucester’s ancient Roman and medieval city defenses through a unique underground viewing chamber beneath Eastgate Street.
World Walks (inc. Cotswold Journeys, British & Irish Walks)
12.0 km
Explore the captivating beauty of the Cotswolds with World Walks, your gateway to unforgettable guided walking tours across Britain and Ireland.
Cotswold Journeys
12.1 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds on expertly crafted walking tours with seamless logistics and charming local stays.
Visit Cotswolds Online
13.8 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds, where rolling hills, historic villages, and breathtaking landscapes await every traveler seeking an unforgettable adventure.
Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust
13.8 km
Explore the rich ecclesiastical heritage of Gloucestershire through its historic churches, showcasing stunning architecture and engaging community initiatives.
Cotswold Way
16.3 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and charming villages along the Cotswold Way, a premier hiking trail in England's stunning Cotswolds region.
Sudeley Castle
16.3 km
Explore Sudeley Castle, a historical landmark in the Cotswolds, rich in royal history, stunning gardens, and family-friendly activities.
Sudeley Castle Gardens
16.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Sudeley Castle Gardens, a must-visit gem in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Great Days Out UK
16.6 km
Discover the best of Gloucester at Great Days Out UK, your ultimate Tourist Information Centre for local attractions and travel tips.
Whittington Court
17.0 km
Explore the enchanting Whittington Court, a historical landmark in Cheltenham, offering stunning architecture and serene gardens perfect for a leisurely visit.
Painswick Beacon
17.7 km
Explore the ancient hillfort summit of Painswick Beacon with stunning 360-degree views across the iconic Cotswold Hills and beyond.
Hailes Church
18.1 km
Explore the medieval Hailes Church and evocative ruins of Hailes Abbey, a royal-founded pilgrimage site famed for the Holy Blood relic.
Hailes Abbey
18.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Hailes Abbey, a stunning Cotswolds gem that transports visitors back to medieval times.
Painswick Rococo Garden
19.3 km
Explore the beauty of Painswick Rococo Garden, a stunning 18th-century garden showcasing the art of landscape design in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tewkesbury Battlefield
2.6 km
Explore the historic fields of the 1471 Battle of Tewkesbury, a decisive Wars of the Roses site steeped in medieval heritage and commemorative art.
Tewkesbury Abbey
3.3 km
Discover the Norman splendor and medieval artistry of Tewkesbury Abbey, a historic gem in the heart of Gloucestershire.
The John Moore Countryside Museum
3.4 km
Explore Tudor life and native wildlife at the John Moore Countryside Museum, a historic gem in the heart of Tewkesbury’s 15th-century district.
National Trust - Ashleworth Tithe Barn
6.9 km
Explore Ashleworth Tithe Barn, a stunning 15th-century medieval barn with timeless architecture and riverside charm in Gloucestershire.
Nature in Art
7.4 km
Discover the world’s first museum dedicated to nature-inspired art, set in the elegant Georgian Wallsworth Hall near Gloucester.
Jet Age Museum
8.0 km
Explore Gloucestershire’s aviation heritage through historic aircraft, interactive cockpits, and passionate volunteer stories at the Jet Age Museum.
Winston Churchill Memorial Gardens
10.2 km
A serene urban oasis in Cheltenham, blending historic charm with lush gardens and a tribute to Winston Churchill.
Pittville Park
10.5 km
Cheltenham’s largest ornamental park blending Victorian heritage, lakes, sports, and family fun in a lush, historic setting.
The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum and The Wilson Kitchen arts café
10.7 km
Discover Cheltenham’s vibrant arts and heritage hub with inspiring exhibitions, family activities, and a charming café in the heart of the town.
Royal Cres
10.8 km
Elegant Regency crescent in Cheltenham showcasing handcrafted ironwork and historic spa town charm from the early 1800s.
High St
10.8 km
Cheltenham’s main shopping street, where big brands meet independent boutiques in a lively Cotswolds market town.
Holst Victorian House
10.9 km
Step into the birthplace of Gustav Holst and experience authentic Victorian life in Cheltenham’s only open Victorian home.
The Hare and the Minotaur
10.9 km
A captivating sculpture blending myth and nature, The Hare and the Minotaur stands tall on Cheltenham’s Promenade, crafted from reclaimed metal by Sophie Ryder.
The Neptune Fountain
10.9 km
A majestic 19th-century fountain on Cheltenham’s Promenade, celebrating Neptune with classical grandeur and Regency elegance.
The Tudor House Museum
10.9 km
Step back into Tudor England at this charming 17th-century house museum nestled in the historic riverside town of Upton upon Severn.
Essential places to dine
Queens Head Longford
9.6 km
A cherished gastropub in Gloucester offering hearty traditional roasts, friendly service, and a cozy countryside pub atmosphere.
The Coconut Tree Cheltenham
10.3 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and island cocktails in a cozy, lively Cheltenham venue with authentic flavours and warm hospitality.
MUSE Brasserie
10.7 km
Creative fusion of French and Indian cuisine in stylish Cheltenham setting, offering innovative dishes and warm, attentive service.
Cosy Club
10.7 km
Eclectic British dining and lively social vibes await you daily in Cheltenham’s vibrant Brewery Quarter.
Lumiere
10.8 km
Michelin-starred Lumière in Cheltenham offers innovative British fine dining with seasonal, home-grown ingredients in an elegant, intimate setting.
Wheatstone Inn
10.9 km
A traditional British pub in Barnwood, Gloucester, serving classic pub fare and local ales in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
The Ivy Montpellier Brasserie Cheltenham
11.0 km
Elegant dining in Cheltenham’s historic Montpellier Rotunda, blending modern British cuisine with iconic Ivy style and grand architectural charm.
The Boathouse
11.0 km
Charming riverside tapas restaurant blending British and European flavors in the heart of Upton upon Severn.
Purslane Restaurant
11.1 km
Discover Purslane, Cheltenham’s intimate modern British restaurant celebrating sustainable seafood and seasonal local produce with inventive flair.
Petit Coco Bistro
11.1 km
Charming French bistro in Cheltenham offering authentic classics, cozy farmhouse decor, and a warm, intimate dining experience.
Prithvi
11.2 km
Experience innovative Indian fine dining in Cheltenham with exquisite flavors, elegant ambiance, and impeccable service at Prithvi.
The Lock Keepers
11.4 km
A serene riverside restaurant and hotel near Gloucester, offering seasonal dishes, warm service, and cozy accommodation in a charming setting.
Le Champignon Sauvage
11.4 km
A serene Michelin-starred haven in Cheltenham offering inventive Anglo-French cuisine with exceptional service and a celebrated wine list.
Nepalese Chef
11.5 km
Experience authentic Nepalese and Asian fusion cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu in the heart of Gloucester.
Sebz
11.6 km
Authentic Mediterranean tapas and vibrant wine bar in Gloucester’s historic Northgate Street, blending fresh flavors with a lively atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Malt House Emporium
6.3 km
Discover unique antiques, vintage treasures, and a cozy café experience at The Malt House Emporium near Tewkesbury.
Willow Hilson Vintage
10.7 km
Authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to 1960s in a charming Cheltenham boutique with artistic flair and photography studio.
Vinegar Hill
10.9 km
Discover Cheltenham’s family-run boutique blending stylish homewares, fashion, and unique gifts in a warm, inviting setting since 1997.
Great British Boutique
11.3 km
Discover unique gifts and quirky homeware in Cheltenham’s welcoming Great British Boutique, where friendly service meets charming finds.
Emporium
11.6 km
Discover unique gifts and a warm welcome at Emporium, Cheltenham’s charming family-run gift shop on Bath Road.
Westgate Retail Park
11.7 km
Convenient shopping with free parking and a variety of homeware stores in the heart of Gloucester’s Westgate Street.
Chez Rose
11.8 km
Discover unique gifts and shabby chic treasures in a warm, welcoming boutique nestled in Gloucester’s historic Westgate Street.
L&S Lifestyle
11.8 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish finds in a cozy boutique setting at L&S Lifestyle, Gloucester’s charming gift shop on College Street.
Pilgrims Gloucester
11.8 km
Discover unique gifts and a cosy, atmospheric shopping experience in the heart of historic Gloucester.
King's Walk
12.0 km
Gloucester’s central shopping destination featuring popular high street brands and convenient dining in a lively city centre setting.
Upstairs Downstairs
12.2 km
Discover Gloucester’s charming antique shop with unique collectibles and a cozy tearoom serving homemade treats.
Gift Company
12.6 km
Discover unique gifts and charming homeware at The Gift Company, nestled in the vibrant Gloucester Quays outlet by the historic docks.
Gloucester Quays
12.7 km
Discover designer bargains and festive charm at Gloucester Quays, a lively waterfront outlet set within historic docks.
Cotswold Creates
14.4 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and handcrafted treasures that capture the heart of the Cotswolds in Gloucester’s welcoming Cotswold Creates.
Just Incase Gifts
15.6 km
Discover unique, quality gifts and local crafts at this warm, family-run shop in the heart of Winchcombe’s charming Cotswold village.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Gloucester Old Spot
4.8 km
A quintessential English pub in Cheltenham offering hearty modern British fare, rare breed pork specialties, and a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round.
The House in The Tree
6.9 km
A charming and historic English pub in Cheltenham, serving hearty homemade meals in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with rustic character.
The Royal Exchange
8.5 km
Historic English pub with cozy charm, local ales, and scenic Gloucestershire views in the heart of Hartpury.
The Cotswold Inn, Cheltenham.
10.9 km
A lively Cheltenham pub blending traditional charm with vibrant live music and a welcoming local atmosphere.
Copa of Cheltenham
10.9 km
Lively pub and restaurant on Regent Street offering great drinks, tasty pub food, and a welcoming atmosphere with live sports and a beer garden.
The Retreat
11.3 km
A charming Cheltenham wine bar blending historic ambiance with locally sourced cuisine and a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.
The Heritage
11.3 km
A welcoming Gloucester bar blending rugby spirit with cozy charm and a diverse drink selection for locals and fans alike.
The Royal Oak, Prestbury
11.3 km
Historic 16th-century pub in Prestbury offering traditional Cotswold charm, seasonal British fare, award-winning ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
England's Glory
11.4 km
A traditional Gloucester pub offering hearty food, the best Guinness, lively events, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Deans Walk Inn
11.4 km
Experience Gloucester’s warmest welcome with local ales, hearty meals, and a lively atmosphere at Deans Walk Inn.
The Pelican Inn (Wye Valley)
11.5 km
Historic Gloucester pub famed for award-winning real ales, lively events, and a warm, authentic British atmosphere.
The Abbey
11.7 km
A vibrant Gloucester bar famed for its bottomless brunch, friendly service, and lively social atmosphere in the city centre.
The Turks Head Inn
11.8 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Gloucester’s heart, famed for its excellent cask ales and friendly local atmosphere.
Elbien Soe Bar
11.8 km
Discover Gloucester’s vibrant grill and bar scene at Elbien Soe Bar, where flavorful dishes meet a lively, welcoming atmosphere 24/7.
The Fountain Inn
11.8 km
Charming Grade II listed pub in Gloucester’s city centre offering real ales, hearty British fare, and a cozy historic atmosphere with garden and function rooms.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Home and Botanic Nightclub
10.8 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Cheltenham’s Home and Botanic, a multi-room club offering cocktails, live piano, DJs, and unforgettable nights.
Thirteen Degrees
10.8 km
Cheltenham’s late-night hotspot for dancing, cocktails, and private events in a central urban setting.
2 PIGS
10.8 km
A lively Cheltenham nightclub with dual rooms spinning rock, punk, indie, and classic hits, known for affordable drinks and an alternative vibe.
Under the Prom
10.9 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with premium drinks, three unique bars, and VIP service at Under The Prom nightclub.
Coco
11.0 km
Cheltenham’s underground hotspot for vibrant nightlife, top DJs, and creative cocktails in a lively basement setting.
The 21 Club
11.0 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife at The 21 Club, where music, dancing, and great drinks create unforgettable nights.
Popworld - Cheltenham
11.0 km
Cheltenham’s lively late-night hotspot where cheesy pop tunes and creative cocktails fuel unforgettable party nights.
MooMoo Clubrooms Cheltenham
11.0 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, VIP vibes, and late-night energy at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Bar Fever Gloucester
12.0 km
Experience Gloucester’s vibrant nightlife at Bar Fever, a trendy nightclub with dynamic music, stylish interiors, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Jax Nightclub Gloucester
12.1 km
Energetic nightclub in Gloucester offering diverse music, two dance floors, and a welcoming atmosphere for late-night fun.
ATIK Gloucester
12.1 km
Gloucester’s largest nightclub, ATIK pulses with vibrant music, student nights, and an energetic party atmosphere until the early hours.
Trio Nightclub
24.8 km
Experience Stroud’s vibrant nightlife at Trio Nightclub, where music, dancing, and energetic vibes light up weekend nights.
Sin
25.0 km
Experience Worcester’s vibrant nightlife at Sin, a lively nightclub known for energetic music, salsa nights, and a bustling dance floor in the city centre.
Bushwackers
25.3 km
Experience Worcester’s vibrant nightlife at Bushwackers, a dynamic nightclub with diverse music, multiple bars, and a popular outdoor chill-out area.
Tramps Nightclub
25.3 km
Worcester’s vibrant late-night hotspot offering energetic dance floors, diverse music, and a lively social scene in the heart of the city.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Nature Escape
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
