AN Oxford church has been named as a top pick in a nationwide poll by renowned, best-selling author Bill Bryson.

The Anglo-American writer, well known for his book on the UK ‘Notes from a Small Island’, named Iffley’s St Mary the Virgin church among his favourites.

In the Explore Churches poll he called the centuries old church ‘splendid’ and said it was well worth a visit not only for its interior but also as the "perfect destination for a walk along the Thames from the centre of the city."

He added: “It is impossible to overstate the importance of churches to this country.

“Nothing else in the built environment has the emotional and spiritual resonance, the architectural distinction, the ancient, reassuring solidity of a parish church.

“To me, they are the physical embodiment of all that is best and most enduring in Britain.”

The church at Church Way, Iffley, is one of just 14 to make the list and its vicar of 10 years the Rev Andrew McKearney said he was ‘delighted’ with the nod but added that it came as no surprise.

The 60-year-old said: “We are very, very pleased with the selection but actually not surprised. What makes it so popular is the unspoiled nature that makes it unique.

“The fact that Bill Bryson has joined this group of people that enjoy the church I am absolutely delighted that he has come across us.”

The church dates back to 1160 and is renowned for its historic Romanesque architecture.

Its interior is virtually unaltered since it was built and is dominated by large, carved arches under the central tower. A square sanctuary was added in the 13th century.

He added: “We are a really delightful example of renaissance architecture and its very unspoiled so unlike many churches we have not got big tombs or catacombs built into it.

“It is pretty much how it was when it was first built.”

The setting, situated close to the picturesque river Thames and Iffley Lock is another reason for its popularity he said, regularly attracting some 120 worshipers.

He added: “People just love it. People come for the architecture as well as the surroundings.”

“They are a very friendly congregation who are very engaged with the issues of the day.

“The church serves the community of Rose Hill and Donnington as well as Iffley. They feel like this is their church as well as the people in Iffley.

“For a number of families it’s their family church where the big moments in their life story are made.”

The church is now embarking on a refurbishment project in a bid to ensure the future of the centuries’ old stone working.

There will be scaffolding in place at the west face of the building for the next ten weeks.

To see the other selections on the list visit nationalchurchestrust.org/explore-churches