St Leodegarius, Ashby St Ledgers

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St Leodegarius, Ashby St Ledgers

St Leodegarius, Ashby St Ledgers

Where is it – East Midlands, England

Who looks after it –  Church authorities 

What is it –  Church, Free access 

When is it from – Medieval

St Leodegarius, Leodegar – or Leger – was a 7th century Bishop of Autun, who had his eyes gouged and his tongue cut out, before later being decapitated. The church of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St Leodegarius in the charming little village of Ashby St Ledgers is a gem. It dates from the 12th century, but is mostly 14th and 15th centuries.  There’s a 15th century carved rood screen, box pews, a minstrels gallery and numerous wall paintings. These include a depiction of the flagellation of St Margaret dated at 1325, 14th and 15th century frescos illustrating the Passion above the chancel, a 15th century fresco of St Christopher and a 16th century cartoon, apparently representing the Black Death, posing as the sexton. The church (and village) is also known for its association with the Catesby family, who owned the manor for centuries. Robert Catesby was the brains behind the Gunpowder Plot of 1605. The gatehouse where some of the planning took place is close to the church, but is not open to the general public.

 


Address
Main St, Ashby St Ledgers, Northamptonshire CV23 8UN 

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