Dorchester - Abbey of St Peter & St Paul - Oxfordshire

The very large, approximately 200ft long, Abbey of St Peter & St Paul is all that remains of the Augustinian Abbey, dating from 1170. The late Norman church survives in the north wall of the nave.
The church stands on the site of a Saxon cathedral founded in 634.

The greatest beauty is concentrated in the 14th century choir, most unusual and famous 13th century stained glass window. Its tracery forms a tree springing from the loins of Jesse, on which are eloquent sculptures of his descendants, others of whom are depicted in stained glass. The same masterliness is visible in the elaborate sedilia and piscina. There is a magnificent 12th century lead font, a shrine to St Birinus in the south choir aisle, and an unforgettable effigy of a knight, C1280, drawing his sword in defiance of death. A black stone slab to Sarah Fletcher records that she 'died a martyr to excessive sensibility' in 1799, and wall paintings. Note the wealth of medieval and 19th century stained glass. Impressive 19th century lychgate. The front door is magnificent with ornate metalwork.
The Abbey is one of Thames Valley's most magnificent buildings, standing at the bend of the River Thames hidden among the willow