about the spaces
the church: nave, chancel, balcony
Fire regulations capacity: 150 (nave/chancel), plus 40 (with balcony)
Briefly: The space is modelled on the structure (but not necessarily the scale) of medieval banquet halls - like the one at Winchester housing King Arthur's Round Table. These details, and the quality of the craftsmanship, make this an excellent venue for weddings and blessings, celebrations, group work, and live entertainment.
More:The space comprises the main nave and chancel areas with double doors opening onto a foyer/vestibule. It is situated in the original part of the building, dating from 1914, and represents an excellent example of the Gothic style as reimagined in the Art Nouveau/Arts and Crafts era. The Art Nouveau stained-glass window above the chancel is exceptional. Designed by Margaret Voelker and made by Theodora
Salusbury (Flickr) over the 1914-15 winter, they illustrate lines from Psalm 29. In the top corners, shields bear the words `Vox Domini' - the Voice of the Lord. In the top centre, angels carry banners with the legends 'The Lord will give strength unto his people', and 'The Lord will bless his people' [Ps 29:11]'
A photograph of the window by Andrew Loutit is available to download.
The balcony and vestibule space was added in the early 1960's (designed in the 1950's).
the hall
Fire regulations capacity: 50
Briefly: The space comprises the hall, and includes use of the kitchen with free FairTrade tea, coffee, and sugar. This functional space is ideal for group work, meetings, and receptions. With black-out, it also makes an ideal venue for presentations and video. The hall predates the 1960's vestible extension.
the bill thomson room
Fire regulations capacity: 15
Description: A modern committee room, brightly decorated, with comfortable seating, flip-charts and pens, and halogen lighting.
committee room 2
Fire regulations capacity: 7
Description: A modern room, brightly decorated, with comfortable seating. Ideal for central Oxford, private, one-to-one meetings, small tuition groups, or small group meetings. (Comfortably fits 5 people.)
None of these any good?
If none of these look suited to your particular requirements, why not enquire as to available space at Oxford Friends Meeting House in St Giles?
