The Nave is built in the Early English style and dates to approximately 1230 A.D. The Clerestory windows were added later, probably around 1350. The Chancel belongs to the Decorated period of the 14th century.

Of course, the most interesting thing about the church for Claypole/Claypoole/Claypool researchers is that is was closely connected to the family for over 100 years. Here is where the family members were christened, married, and buried for several generations. The outstanding feature of the church for them is the Claypole Chapel, the South Transept. It is a fine example of late Decorated and Perpendicular architecture. It is believed to have been initially built as a guild chapel in about 1350. There are bell-flower mouldings in the cornice--the same decoration that can still be seen at Northborough Manor, indicating that the two were built at about the same time. The large five-light window in the south wall has the familiar tracery of the Decorated period. Below this window is the tomb of Martha Claypole, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Cromwell) Claypole, who died in 1664. The same wall contains two arched (tomb) recesses, or sedilia, that might once have contained effigies.

In the North-east side of the Chapel stands the altar--a tomb or monument in the name of James Claypole who bought Northborough Manor in 1563. The family coat of arms is engraved in the top of the monument and repeated on either side of the arch, with the inscription, "All good blessings unto man cometh of the free gift of God." To the right of this monument is a plaque commemorating the reburial here of Elizabeth Cromwell, widow of Oliver Cromwell. She was moved here from the Henry VII Chapel at Westminster Abbey after the restoration of the monarchy. Her daughter, Elizabeth Cromwell Claypole, was allowed to remain in her original niche at Westminster Abbey.

St. Andrew's is a lovely church full of history, but it is in trouble. It is in dire need of a new roof, a very expensive item indeed for such a historic building. It will cost 20,000 pounds (about $33,000) to replace it. This is a sum that the village is having great difficulty raising. If you would like to give to this worthy cause to preserve a valuable piece of Claypole history, please send it to :

Brian Davies

2 Granville Avenue

Northborough

Peterborough PE6 9DB

United Kingdom

You may also write to the Rector:

Rev. Nigel Frye

The Rectory

11, Lincoln Road

Glinton PE6 73R

United Kingdom