After surviving centuries of history—including wars, plagues, and the Reformation—Holy Rood Church in Daglingworth, Cotswolds, is finally addressing a major modern challenge: providing toilet facilities.
This Saxon church, dating back at least to the 11th century, has gone without a restroom for over a millennium, a lack that discouraged many from attending services. The Grade I listed building’s accessibility issues are set to be resolved thanks to generous funding.
Holy Rood Church has been awarded a £35,000 grant from the National Churches Trust as part of a £900,000 initiative aimed at keeping UK churches open and vibrant hubs for their communities. Additionally, the church will receive a £5,000 grant from the Headley Foundation.
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These funds will enable the installation of an accessible toilet at the base of the bell tower and the addition of a kitchen servery in the north aisle—facilities designed to make the church welcoming to everyone.
Church leaders see this as a turning point. With new amenities, they plan to introduce community activities such as mother and toddler groups and offer refreshments after services, helping to build social connections and reduce isolation.
Already open around the clock and popular with walkers and tourists, Holy Rood Church’s modern upgrades promise to breathe new life into the historic building and the local community it serves.
The church also boasts remarkable historical features, including Saxon carvings rediscovered during 19th-century restorations. These carvings, depicting scenes such as the crucifixion and dating from around 1050, predate the Norman Conquest and follow Syrian artistic traditions.
Claire Walker, Chief Executive of the National Churches Trust, highlighted the importance of supporting heritage sites like Holy Rood: “This grant not only preserves an important piece of history but also ensures the church remains a vibrant space for worship and community life.”
Steve Brady, Churchwarden at Holy Rood, expressed gratitude for the funding: “These grants are crucial for vital improvements and restoring our cherished church, helping us maintain its place at the heart of village life for generations to come.”
Holy Rood Church, with its rich history and renewed facilities, remains open daily to visitors and parishioners eager to experience its unique charm and community spirit.