Adel Church interior

Norman church of St John the Baptist, Adel, built between 1150 and 1170. 

 

As you might expect in such an old church, even though it is relatively small, there are lots of points of interest inside. The chancel arch is a fine example of Norman architecture, with elaborate carvings, better preserved than those around the door outside. You can see them in detail in Simon Jenkins' article HERE. 

The pulpit and choir stalls have beautiful linenfold-style panelling. Most of the windows, although Norman in style, are Victorian and replace much larger ones inserted in the 14th century. 

The baptismal font may be original; its elaborate oak canopy was carved in 1921 by Eric Gill (a fine craftsman though a controversial figure).

There are memorials to two clergymen, one of whom was a former vicar of Adel (spelled Addle on the relief) who died in 1788 and the other, a Bishop of Ripon, who was formerly a choirboy here. 

The vestry holds several old photos, two heraldic hatchments and a fine window that was originally in the chancel and was moved when the Victorians installed the faux-Norman windows. It is hand-painted stained glass made in 1681 by Henry Giles of York, and shows the royal arms of Charles II.