This National Trust red-brick building tucked away in a quiet corner of Hampshire houses an unexpected treasure; an epic series of large-scale murals, by the acclaimed war artist Sir Stanley Spencer.

Built to honour the 'forgotten dead' of the First World War, who were not remembered on any official memorials, the series was inspired by Spencer’s own experiences as a medical orderly at the Beaufort Hospital in Bristol and both orderly and soldier on the Salonika front. It is peppered with personal and unexpected details and uniquely shows the everyday activities rather than the horrors of war. Inspired by Giotto's Arena Chapel in Padua and made possible through the generous patronage of Mr & Mrs Behrend, Spencer referred to Sandham Memorial Chapel as his "Holy Box". The 19 oil paintings covering three walls of the chapel took six years to complete and are considered by many to be the artist’s finest achievement.

There is an exhibtion area in one of the originial almshouses which are decorated in period colours and style. You'll find information panels, a short film, copy archival material, a handling kit, and panels contexualising the chapel.

Outside the front of the chapel you have views across to Watership Down which glows in the late evening sun, the originial orchard with old apple varieties and a beautiful wildflower meadow containing many important flora and fauna.

At the rear of the chapel the garden which was professionally designed, but inspired and created by volunteers, provides a place to reflect.

nationaltrust.org.uk/sandham-memorial-chapel

Adam Oz

December 19, 2023

This is a great place to stop - but worth checking the opening times. It’s a National Trust site so easy to do.

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Elevation 160 m

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Thursday 6 November

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Location: Burghclere, Basingstoke And Deane, Hampshire, South East England, England, United Kingdom

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