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St Dunawads Church, Bangor-on-Dee
St Dunawads Church, Bangor-on-Dee
The church is dedicated to St Dunawd and is located in Bangor-on-Dee, Wrexham, Wales.
Key Facts
- Location: Bangor-on-Dee, Wrexham, Wales
- Construction: 1300
- Designation: Grade II listed building
- Style: Gothic
- Status: Active
Overview
Display panels and an animatronic monk named Robert narrate the legend connecting the church to a significant 6th-century monastery. According to the Venerable Bede, an 8th-century monk, King Aethlefrithe of Northumberland destroyed this monastery in 613AD, which housed over 2000 monks. This is why Bangor on Dee is sometimes called Bangor Monachorum.
The church is dedicated to St Dunawd, a notable Abbot and father of St Deiniol, founder of Bangor Cathedral. St Dunawd died in the early 7th century. The chancel, made of red sandstone, dates back to around 1300AD, as does the window by the rector’s stall. The first rector, William, son of Lord St John, served in 1300, and a list of rectors from then to the present is on display.
In the 18th century, the south aisle was rebuilt, and the church tower was added. Over the next 200 years, further improvements were made. Bell ringing has been a tradition since at least the early 18th century, with six bells dated 1727, 1812, and 1865. The bells were rehung in 1946.
Excellent refreshments are available from the 2 neighbouring pubs. We have a historical display featuring the church and village life, including a resident monk who tells the story of the origins of the monastery.
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