St Martin's Church, Bladon: A Historic Sanctuary and Churchill’s Final Resting Place
Historic parish church in Bladon, famed for its Victorian restoration and as the final resting place of Sir Winston Churchill.
St Martin's Church in Bladon near Woodstock, Oxfordshire, is a Church of England parish church with origins dating back to the 11th century. The current building, constructed in 1804 and remodeled in 1891 by architect A.W. Blomfield, features a chancel, nave, and tower with pinnacles. It is renowned for its churchyard, the burial site of Sir Winston Churchill and the Spencer-Churchill family, and houses a commemorative stained glass window honoring 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 churchyard to see the graves of Sir Winston Churchill and the Spencer-Churchill family.
- Admire the commemorative stained glass window by Emma Blount depicting Churchill’s legacy.
- Explore the church interior to appreciate the 1891 Gothic Revival restoration by A.W. Blomfield.
- Check for community events or services in the church room, which serves as a village hub.
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 taxi or a 20-minute walk along quiet country lanes will bring you to Bladon and St Martin's Church. Bus fares typically range from £3 to £5 one way.
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Car
Driving from Oxford, the journey to St Martin's Church in Bladon takes about 20-30 minutes via the A44. Parking is limited near the church, so plan to use nearby public parking in Woodstock and walk the remaining 3 km on foot. No parking fees apply near the church.
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Train and Taxi
Travel by train to Oxford station, then take a taxi to Bladon, which is approximately a 15-minute drive. Taxi fares typically range from £20 to £30. This option is convenient if you prefer not to drive.
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
Ancient Origins and Architectural Evolution
St Martin's Church stands on a site with a religious history stretching back to the 11th or 12th century. Early records mention John de London, chaplain to Henry III, who was granted the Manor of Bladon and the church advowson in 1269. The medieval church, once featuring an ornate Norman south porch doorway and a clerestory that brightened the nave, was demolished in 1802 due to dilapidation. The present church was built in 1804, funded in part by the 4th Duke of Marlborough, marking a new chapter in the church’s architectural story.Victorian Restoration and Artistic Enhancements
In 1891, architect A.W. Blomfield undertook significant restoration and remodeling. He rebuilt the chancel, restored the nave, and added new windows along with pinnacles on the tower, shaping the church’s current Gothic Revival style. Despite the new windows, the interior remains relatively dim without a clerestory. The chancel windows commemorate the rector Arthur Majendie, whose family contributed to the restoration. A lych gate was added in 1893 in memory of Majendie’s mother, and a statue of Saint Martin was installed above the porch in 1937, enriching the church’s historic ambiance.A Sanctuary of National Significance
St Martin’s Churchyard is best known as the burial place of Sir Winston Churchill, Britain’s iconic wartime leader. Churchill was laid to rest here in 1965 alongside members of the Spencer-Churchill family. The church honors his legacy not only through his gravesite but also with a remarkable stained glass window on the south side, created by award-winning artist Emma Blount. This window depicts St Martin, patron saint of soldiers, and St Alban, the first English Christian martyr, interwoven with symbols and quotes celebrating Churchill’s military and political achievements.Community and Preservation Efforts
The Friends of St Martin’s Church, established in 2001, play a vital role in preserving the church’s fabric and supporting its community functions. Their efforts have funded heating, interior painting, hymn books, and choir robes, ensuring the church remains a vibrant center for worship and village life. The church room also serves as a community hub, reflecting the church’s ongoing role beyond its historic and memorial significance.Musical Heritage and Modern Upkeep
The church houses a pipe organ originally built in 1906 and recently rebuilt in 2022, maintaining a tradition of musical worship and enhancing services. This blend of historic preservation and contemporary care exemplifies the church’s balance between honoring its past and serving present-day parishioners.Architectural and Spiritual Atmosphere
Visitors to St Martin’s experience a tranquil and reverent atmosphere within a modestly lit interior that invites contemplation. The Gothic Revival features, combined with memorials and stained glass artistry, create a space resonant with history, faith, and national memory. The church remains a poignant destination for those interested in English heritage, ecclesiastical architecture, and the life of Winston Churchill.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 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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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
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The Trout Inn
6.6 km
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Godstow Abbey
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Wolvercote Cemetery
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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
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The Oxford Kitchen
8.3 km
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The Perch
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Cherwell Boathouse Restaurant
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Restaurant 66A at Cotswold Lodge Hotel
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Gees Restaurant & Bar
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Brasserie Blanc
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Branca Bar, Restaurant and Deli
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The Standard
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The Old Bookbinders Ale House
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Parsonage Grill
10.0 km
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Browns Oxford
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Wilding Oxford - Wine Dine Shop
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Pierre Victoire
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Lula's Ethiopian and Eritrean Cuisine
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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
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Rainbow and Spoon Boutique - Ladies Fashion in Oxford
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Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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The Shop of Secrets
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Oxford Gifts & Candyland
10.6 km
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Watsons of Oxford
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The Crafters Emporium
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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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Bodleian Libraries Shop in Old School's Quad
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Oxford Souvenirs
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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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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The Varsity Club
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Kiss Bar
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Plush Oxford
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Mirage Aylesbury
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TWC
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ReVA Nightclub
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17 Black Restaurant, Cocktail and Wine Bar complete with Nightclub and Karaoke Room.
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Garudaa
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The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club
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The Venue, Bucks
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Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
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Officers Mess - 1940's Cocktail Bar
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
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
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
