St Martin's Church, Bladon: Historic Parish and Churchill's Resting Place
Historic parish church in Bladon famed for its Victorian architecture and as Winston Churchill’s burial site.
St Martin's Church in Bladon, near Woodstock, Oxfordshire, is a Church of England parish church renowned for its deep historical roots dating back to the 11th or 12th century. Rebuilt and remodeled notably in 1804 and 1891 by architect A.W. Blomfield, the church is famed as the burial site of Sir Winston Churchill and the Spencer-Churchill family. Its architecture blends medieval heritage with Victorian restoration, featuring a chancel, nave, and distinctive pinnacles on the tower. The churchyard and commemorative stained glass windows celebrate Churchill's legacy.
A brief summary to St Martin's Church
- 5 Church St, Woodstock, Bladon, OX20 1RS, GB
- +441993812915
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit the stained glass window dedicated to Winston Churchill, featuring rich symbolism of his life and military service.
- Explore the churchyard to see the graves of the Spencer-Churchill family, including Sir Winston Churchill.
- Notice the architectural details added by A.W. Blomfield during the 1891 restoration, especially the pinnacles on the tower.
- Learn about the Friends of St Martin’s group and their efforts to maintain and enhance the church community.
- Take time to appreciate the quiet, reflective atmosphere of the church and its surrounding village environment.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus service from Oxford to Woodstock, which runs approximately every 20-30 minutes. From Woodstock, a local taxi or a 30-minute walk through village lanes will bring you to St Martin's Church in Bladon. Bus fares typically range from £3 to £5 one way.
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Car
Driving from Oxford or Woodstock, expect a 15-25 minute journey via local roads. Limited parking is available near the church, so plan to arrive early during busy periods. No parking fees apply, but spaces are limited.
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Train and Taxi
From Oxford railway station, take a taxi for the approximately 20-minute journey to Bladon. Train services to Oxford are frequent from London and other major cities. Taxi fares from Oxford to Bladon usually cost around £20-£30.
St Martin's Church location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St Martin's Church
Origins and Early History
St Martin's Church stands on a site with origins likely in the 11th or 12th century, evidenced by an ornate Norman doorway once part of the medieval church and references dating to 1269 when John de London, chaplain to Henry III, was granted the Manor of Bladon along with the church advowson. The original medieval structure featured a clerestory that enhanced natural light in the nave, though the building itself became dilapidated by the early 19th century.Rebuilding and Victorian Restoration
In 1802, the medieval church was demolished due to its poor condition, and a new church was constructed with financial support from the 4th Duke of Marlborough, opening in 1804. Later, in 1891, the noted architect A.W. Blomfield undertook significant restoration and remodeling. He rebuilt the chancel, restored the nave, added new windows, and introduced pinnacles to the tower, shaping much of the church's present appearance. Despite the new windows, the interior remains relatively dim compared to the medieval predecessor, as the clerestory was not reinstated.Architectural Features and Memorials
The church’s architecture reflects a blend of medieval heritage and Victorian design, with the tower’s pinnacles and restored nave marking Blomfield’s influence. A statue of Saint Martin was added above the porch in 1937, symbolizing the church’s dedication. Inside, stained glass windows commemorate notable figures, including a special window dedicated to Sir Winston Churchill. This window, created by award-winning artist Emma Blount, features St Martin, patron saint of soldiers, and St Alban, the first English Christian martyr, along with symbols representing Churchill’s military and political career.Churchyard and Churchill’s Legacy
St Martin's Churchyard is internationally recognized as the final resting place of Sir Winston Churchill, Britain’s wartime Prime Minister. The Spencer-Churchill family graves are also located here, making the site a place of pilgrimage for those interested in British history. The churchyard's serene setting complements the commemorative stained glass windows that celebrate Churchill’s life, achievements, and loyalty to the nation.Community and Preservation Efforts
The Friends of St Martin's, established in 2001, support the church’s preservation and community role. Their contributions have funded heating, interior painting, hymn books, choir robes, and other enhancements, ensuring the church remains a vibrant center for worship and local events. The church also serves as a community hub through its Church Room.Spiritual and Cultural Significance
As the parish church of Bladon-with-Woodstock, St Martin’s holds spiritual importance for local worshippers and visitors alike. Its rich history, architectural character, and connection to one of Britain’s most iconic leaders make it a cultural landmark. The church embodies centuries of faith, heritage, and remembrance within a tranquil Oxfordshire village setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blue Plaque: J.R.R. Tolkien
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Martyrs' Memorial
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IF Oxford: The Oxford Science and Ideas Festival
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Oxford Ecclesia Walking Tours
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Oxford Magic Walking tours
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Visit Oxford Tours
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Oxford Tours UK
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Clarendon Building
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Bridge of Sighs
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Bodleian Library
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The Covered Market
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The painted room
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New College Ln
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Carfax Tower
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Oxford Experience (University Official Souvenirs)
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Unmissable attractions to see
Blenheim Palace
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The Oxfordshire Museum
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Blenheim Park
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North Leigh Roman Villa
5.3 km
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The Trout Inn
6.6 km
Historic riverside gastropub in Oxford offering seasonal British dishes, scenic terrace, and a charming garden with a roaming peacock.
Godstow Abbey
6.7 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Godstow Abbey, a serene medieval nunnery steeped in royal history and riverside beauty near Oxford.
Wolvercote Cemetery
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A tranquil historic cemetery in Oxford, famed for J.R.R. Tolkien’s grave and diverse cultural heritage.
Cutteslowe and Sunnymead Park
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Port Meadow
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The Mason Arms
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Trap Grounds
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Rose & Crown PH
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North Parade Market
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The Old Flight House
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Lady Margaret Hall, University of Oxford
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Essential places to dine
Pompette
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The Oxford Kitchen
8.3 km
Michelin-starred British fine dining in Oxford’s Summertown, blending seasonal ingredients with elegant ambiance and impeccable service.
The Perch
8.4 km
A charming thatched pub by Oxford’s Port Meadow, blending historic ambiance with hearty British fare and riverside tranquility.
Cherwell Boathouse Restaurant
9.4 km
Historic riverside dining in Oxford offering modern British cuisine, award-winning wines, and scenic boat hire in a charming Victorian boathouse.
Restaurant 66A at Cotswold Lodge Hotel
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Elegant British dining in a charming Victorian villa at Oxford’s Cotswold Lodge Hotel, blending classic and contemporary flavors.
Gees Restaurant & Bar
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Brasserie Blanc
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Classic French brasserie charm meets vibrant Oxford dining in Jericho’s warm and inviting Brasserie Blanc.
Branca Bar, Restaurant and Deli
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A lively Mediterranean gastropub and deli in Oxford’s Jericho, serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and fresh seasonal dishes in a stylish, family-friendly setting.
The Standard
9.7 km
Discover authentic Indian cuisine at The Standard in Oxford – a delightful blend of tradition and flavor awaits every visitor.
The Old Bookbinders Ale House
9.7 km
A charming Oxford pub blending traditional ales with authentic French bistro fare in Jericho’s quirky heart.
Parsonage Grill
10.0 km
Sophisticated British dining in Oxford with art-filled ambiance, impeccable service, and a charming garden terrace for all-day enjoyment.
Browns Oxford
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Wilding Oxford - Wine Dine Shop
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A vibrant Oxford wine bar and restaurant blending inventive small plates with a unique, expertly curated wine selection.
Pierre Victoire
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Authentic French bistro in Oxford since 1996, offering classic cuisine, prix fixe menus, and a warm, intimate atmosphere with excellent value.
Lula's Ethiopian and Eritrean Cuisine
10.3 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian and Eritrean flavors in a warm, communal setting at Lula's in the heart of Oxford.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gatineau Artisan Patisserie & Bakery
8.3 km
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Rainbow and Spoon Boutique - Ladies Fashion in Oxford
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Discover Oxford’s beloved independent boutique offering ethically sourced, unique women’s fashion with a personal touch and timeless style.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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The Shop of Secrets
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Oxford Gifts & Candyland
10.6 km
Explore unique gifts and delicious sweets at Oxford Gifts & Candyland, the heart of local craftsmanship in Oxford.
Watsons of Oxford
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Discover unique gifts and local crafts in a charming Oxford shop offering authentic souvenirs and stylish finds in the city center.
The Crafters Emporium
10.6 km
Discover unique handmade crafts and local artistry at The Crafters Emporium, Oxford’s charming gift shop on historic Cornmarket Street.
Broad Canvas
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Cool Britannia
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Bodleian Weston Library Shop
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The Oxford Gift Shop
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Objects of Use
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Bodleian Libraries Shop in Old School's Quad
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Crystal Spirit Emporium
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Oxford Souvenirs
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Rickety Press
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LJ - Love Jericho Cocktail Bar
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Thirst Bar
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The Lighthouse
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OXO BAR
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The Grapes
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Slug & Lettuce - Oxford
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The Three Goats Heads Pub
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White Horse
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King's Arms, Oxford
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Cow & Creek
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Hanks Bar
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The Varsity Club
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Bridge Nightclub
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Oxford Leisure Ltd
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Kiss Bar
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ATIK Oxford
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Fever Oxford
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Plush Oxford
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Mirage Aylesbury
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Experience Aylesbury’s vibrant nightlife at Mirage, a lively nightclub offering music, dancing, and late-night fun in the heart of town.
TWC
43.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
ReVA Nightclub
44.4 km
Cirencester’s largest nightclub offering electrifying music, stylish cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
17 Black Restaurant, Cocktail and Wine Bar complete with Nightclub and Karaoke Room.
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Garudaa
46.6 km
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The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club
46.8 km
Explore the vibrant community of The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club, where bridge enthusiasts gather for games, camaraderie, and local culture in a picturesque setting.
The Venue, Bucks
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Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
46.9 km
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Officers Mess - 1940's Cocktail Bar
46.9 km
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
