St John the Baptist with Our Lady & St Laurence
Thaxted, Essex
Simon Jenkins, when chairman of the national trust, wrote 'Thaxted is the Queen of Essex and her crown is the church'.
He commissioned architect Eden Nesfield to virtually rebuild the church between 1869 and 1870. Some elements of the old church were kept, including the 14th century porch, to which Nesfield added a charming upper storey. Further work was undertaken later by Temple Moore, an eminent architect, who rebuilt the tower and spire.
More of the original old church can be seen inside, including the 14th century nave roof. There is fine Victorian work as well, particularly the chancel screen.
The reredos is what many consider to be Radwinter's greatest treasure. It is Flemish and from the early 16th century and shows scenes from the Life of Our Lady. Like much at Radwinter it is here because of Reverend Bullock, who bought it in a London saleroom.