Priest's Door and Step

The Early English Period

The next architectural period following the Norman period from about the thirteenth century is known as Early English. 

It was at this time that the whole fabric of the chancel waas rebuilt.   The east window is a fine example of this era.  The outside is simply of the three lancet lights, each topped with the characteristic two-centred arch of the Gothic phase.

Other features of note are the quality of design in this period.   A piscina, essentially a niche, containing a stone bowl with outlet and drain to the churchyard and as this was used essentially for the cleaning of the chalice after Eucharist it was deemed essential that any residue of its contents should be discharged onto consecrated ground 

A priest's door in its traditional position but do notice the difference in floor levels.  The lower being the original and the raised one done during 1893 when restoration was carried out.

Pass into the nave and you will see a recumbent stone effigy beneath the north window of the north transept.   It is of a noble lady wearing a long gown, a veil and whimple, and it is of similar date to the Early English Chancel. (i.e. thirteenth century)  This is thought to represent Alice de Mohun, who was the founder of Newenham Abbey near Axminster, she was possibly the foundress of what was at that time a chapel here - a daughter of Axminster Parish Church? 

Only in 1911 did Membury become an independent parish and was described as the Early English Chapel.

Web address:  www.thelocalchannel.co.uk/memburystjohnbaptist