The chapel dates from the 11th century and was closely tied with the local
Tudor Manor house of Wiston. Both lie in the shadow of Chanctonbury Ring,
another famous Sussex site of natural and archaeological beauty. It lies hidden
amongst the elms just off the A283, past Steyning and before washington. Take
the turn off to Hole Street and the chapel is a few hundred yards on the right,
just before the village Post Office / Shop.
View of the chapel looking to the north
Wiston village was a feudal settlement under the big house of Wiston. It
lies back from the main road and is best visited on foot. It's church, which
shelters under the eastern wall of the big house, almost leaning against it,
has some interesting tombs.
Walking north from Wiston we come to the tiny hamlet of Buncton, one of
the oldest settlements in Sussex. A hunting ground for Roman remains, and
possessing in Buncton Chapel a quaint little Norman edifice. The word Buncton
is a sign of modern carelessness for beautiful words: The original Saxon form
was " Biohchandoune," which is charming.
Carving on capitol supporting the arch
Although small, the chapel contains good 12th century work and is well worth
seeing. There are three excellent decorative arches on the eastern exterior
wall in three very distinctive styles, as shown below.
The stonework has suffered some over the years but the styles are still
discernable, although why three such different styles should be placed on
the same wall right next to each other is odd. Anyone who has the answer to
this, please send an e-mail! I would like to know.....
The three arches lined up in row - now sealed up with nowhere to go!
View of the arch and the south window
Part of the wall painting uncovered
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