'Cat o' nine tails', Dumbleton Church, near to Dumbleton, Gloucestershire, Great Britain.
This carving is on the tympanum above the north door to Dumbleton church. In the book, 'The Blacksmith's Daughter' by Susan Oldacre, this carving is called the 'Cat o' nine tails'. Pevsner describes it as: 'crudely carved (or recut) with leaves issuing from a grotesque's mouth'.
VillageTowns & Villages

Dumbleton

📷 Photo by Philip Halling · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

This lovely village in Gloucestershire offers a quieter glimpse into Cotswold life.

It’s a traditional community, full of character, and a wonderful place for a peaceful stroll away from the busier routes. You’ll find classic honey-coloured stone cottages, and at its heart stands the impressive Dumbleton Hall. Once a grand country house, it now operates as a hotel, but its presence and expansive grounds (sometimes open for walks, it's worth checking) contribute much to the village’s charm and long history. The Hall has a storied past, evolving from a much earlier estate, and its architecture is a local landmark.

Make sure to visit St Peter’s Church, a beautiful parish church with parts dating back to Norman times, offering a real sense of continuity and heritage. It’s a great place to appreciate local craftsmanship and history. The village is surrounded by gentle, open countryside, perfect for walks and simply enjoying the atmosphere. It feels authentically untouched and is ideal for anyone looking to slow down and appreciate a more relaxed pace. You’ll find this peaceful village close to Wormington, Sedgeberrow, and Ashton Under Hill, with Great Washbourne, Wormington Grange, and Aston Somerville also nearby.

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52.02243°N, 1.97678°W Data: osm