Church Of St Nicholas Cole Abbey

The Church of St Nicholas Cole Abbey, built between 1671 and 1681 by Sir Christopher Wren, stands on the site of an earlier church. The interior was destroyed during World War II and has been reconstructed to closely resemble the original design. The church features an unaisled body with vestries at the west end and a tower in the north-west corner. The exterior is made of Portland stone, showcasing arched and corniced windows, an entablature, and a high balustrade. The west elevation is irregular, revealing exposed rubble and brickwork. A pedimented doorway is located towards the west end of the south side and on the north face of the tower. The tower includes arched openings with a pedimented cornice and is topped with four urns. Its lead-covered spire features small oval and circular windows, a gallery, and a weather vane. Inside, the church has a beamed ceiling supported by Corinthian pilasters. Three arched openings at the west end are partly filled by vestries, with a gallery above. Notable original features include the pulpit, font cover, altar rails, and an iron sword rest.