Monument record MDO47186 - Medieval chapel, Athelhampton

The former church of Athelhampton stood near Athelhampton Hall according to Hutchins in 1774 and is described as "a small fabric, consisting of a body and chancel tiled, with a bell-cote". (see engraving on p.580-581).

It appears to have been a private chapel or oratory which became a parish church after the earlier parish church, which traditionally stood 1/4 mile to the west, became ruinous and the area depopulated. (This presumably refers to Bardolfeston village - see SY 79 SE 2). Prior to the repair of Athelhampton
church in 1740 there was a "chamber with a chimney in it" supposed to have been occupied by the rector. <1>

The church "or more correctly, private chapel" at Athelhampton Hall was demolished together with the entrance archway and gatehouse in 1862. Part of the church or chapel is shown in a sketch of Athelhampton Hall dated 1846. (see illustration card). <2>

<1> Shipp, W, and Hodson, J W (eds), 1863, The History and Antiquities of the County of Dorset. 3rd edition. Volume 2 (Monograph). SWX1269.

<2> Dorset Natural History and Archaeological Society, 1899, Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History and Antiquarian Field Club, 124 (Serial). SDO13.

<3> Ordnance Survey, Ordnance Survey Map 6in, 1902 (Map). SWX1540.

(SY 77029422) Church (NR) (Site of) (NAT)

<4> Ordnance Survey, Ordnance Survey Map 6in, 1963 (Map). SWX1540.

(SY 77029422) Chapel (NR) (Site of) (NAT)

<5> National Record of the Historic Environment, 454901 (Digital archive). SDO14739.

Record last edited

Sep 26 2023 4:06PM