Odda's Chapel

One of two intriguing Saxon churches in the small village of Deerhurst, Odda's Chapel is a simple two cell church composed of a nave and chapel. The Chapel was completed about the year 1056 by Earl Odda, one of the most powerful Saxon nobles during the reign of Edward the Confessor.

It is rare to see two historic churches so close together; Deerhurst boasts Odda's Chapel (English Heritage) and the delightful Saxon church of St Mary's. The church was founded about the year 800, and later became part of a monastic settlement.

In the 11th century Deerhurst was the home of Earl Odda, one of the most powerful of Edward the Confessor's nobles. Odda was responsible for the chapel which bears his name, which was completed shortly before his death in 1056. After Odda's death the priory lands were given to the monastery of St Denis, in France, and the chapel passed into the hands of Westminster Abbey.

There is a small car park outside Odda's Chapel (free, but donation requested).

The main entry to the chapel, with the Tudor farmhouse beyond.

See also
Deerhurst Saxon church >>