St Mary's Church, Iffley
© Edward Lever (view gallery)
First impressions are of a Church in France rather than in Oxfordshire, abounding with richly decorated Norman details (Chevrons, beakhead designs etc). The West Front is particularly impressive, with much original 12th century carving. Image cannot be loaded
Iffley Rectory
© Edward Lever (view gallery)
The large and imposing rectory at Iffley dates from the 13th century and stands near to the Church. The Rectory and its estate were so large that it was traditionally let out to a tenant rather than being used by the priest. Later it was divided so that part could be let out and the rest used as a Rectory. Image cannot be loaded
Voussoirs and carvings on arch of west door of St. Mary's, Iffley
© Edward Lever (view gallery)
Close-up of a part of the arch of the west door of St. Mary's, Iffley. The beak-headed designs on the voussoirs (arch stones) are found on many other examples of Norman architecture in England and in other parts of Europe under Norman rule. The origin of the beak-head design as used in England is probably Reading Abbey, which is now ruined, but examples of beak-head voussoirs from the Abbey can be seen in the Museum of Reading. Image cannot be loaded
Starting Ring at Iffley Lock
© Edward Lever (view gallery)
The bronze bull's head and starting ring are set into the stone wall of Iffley Lock. It is the marker for the start of Oxford University Boat Club races. Image cannot be loaded
Interior of St Mary's Church, Iffley
© Edward Lever (view gallery)
In the foreground can be seen one of the massive arches which support the tower. The arch is richly decorated with chevrons and flower designs in a typical Norman style. Image cannot be loaded
Tower of St Mary's, Iffley
© Edward Lever (view gallery)
Telephoto view of the top of the bell tower showing the rich variety of Norman decoration. Strangely, only one of the arches is decorated with chevrons and beakhead figures, possibly due to lack of funds to complete the work. Image cannot be loaded
