Nichols Monument In The Churchyard About 3 Metres North Of North Aisle Of Anglican Church Of St Thomas À Becket

The Nichols Monument is a commemorative tomb dating to circa 1811, constructed from sandstone and limestone. It is situated within the churchyard of St Thomas à Becket, approximately 3 metres north of the church's north aisle, and is one of several monuments honouring members of the Nichols family.

The monument has a flat top with a moulded edge, a moulded plinth, and sandstone side panels. Projecting corner features are marked by moulded quarter balusters. Inscription panels are on the north and south faces; the north panel features a pair of putti and draped swags, while shaped cartouches with hour-glass and trumpet decoration are located between the panels. The inscriptions are significantly worn, with the earliest decipherable date being 1811.

Pucklechurch has Roman origins, developing into an important settlement from the later Anglo-Saxon period. It was once part of the Forest of Kingswood and may have served as a royal burh in the later Saxon period, being the site of Edmund, King of Wessex's hunting lodge. The manor was granted to Glastonbury Abbey in AD 950 and later transferred to Bath Abbey. Following the Dissolution in the 16th century, the village underwent rebuilding and gentrification, evidenced by the construction of large houses in the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries. Further expansion and prosperity occurred in the mid-19th century with the opening of collieries within the parish.

The parish church, founded in the Norman period, largely dates to the 13th century. A north aisle and south porch were added in the 14th century, alongside parts of the tower. A chantry, now the site of the Lady Chapel, was established in 1337, followed by further alterations in the 17th and 19th centuries.

The Nichols tomb is designated at Grade II for its architectural interest as a good example of an early-19th century chest tomb, its design, and its role in commemorating a prominent local family. Additionally, it has group value due to its relationship with the Grade I listed church of St Thomas à Becket and other listed tombs within the churchyard.