Ridiculous Monstrosities? Cotswold Churches Talk with Kirsty Hartsiotis

The rude, strange and hidden side of Cotswold churches

Kirsty Hartsiotis takes a close look at the rude, strange and unsettling carvings and scenes found in medieval Cotswold churches. She will explore exposed bodies, domestic violence, strange beasts and monsters, and ask what these sights meant to the people who made and saw them.

The talk moves from early examples at Saxon Deerhurst to later medieval sins, misericords and jokes carved where few people expected to see them. It also considers why so many of these curious details survived Victorian attempts to tidy churches up. No age guidance is published, which is worth bearing in mind given the subject matter.

The session takes place in the Museum's Meeting Room beside the Art Gallery and lasts about 45 minutes to an hour. The museum has step-free access and accessible parking directly outside, while the main Stratford Park car park is a short walk away. Refreshments are not included, but cafe drinks are available and ticket holders can claim a half-price hot drink.

Booking required. Check the organiser for current availability.

Friday 16 October 2026 · Museum in the Park, Stratford Park, Stratford Road, Stroud, Gloucestershire GL5 4AF · Starts 10:30am