Sacred Monuments in the United Kingdom

Church of St Mary

Daventry

Church of St Mary in Everdon is a Grade I listed parish church in the Daventry District of Northamptonshire, England. It is a large medieval building, and its listing places it among the most significant historic buildings in the country. What is the Church of St Mary in Everdon? The church stands in the village of Everdon, in the Daventry District. Its core dates from the early 14th century, the period of the Decorated style, with later alterations in the 15th century. Historic England and the Northamptonshire Historic Environment Record both describe this early 14th-century core. What does the church look like? The building is made of local ironstone, which gives Northamptonshire churches their warm, brownish tone. The plan is traditional: a chancel, a nave, side aisles, porches and a west tower. The tower has three stages. The aisle windows are mainly Decorated in style, while the clerestory, the upper row of windows above the nave arcades, was added in the later Perpendicular style. This mix of periods is one reason the church is described as large and architecturally rich for a village setting. What is inside? Visitors interested in medieval craftsmanship will find two shields of medieval stained glass. They are the only survivors of what was once a larger series. The church also contains a wall monument from 1606 commemorating Thomas and Dorothy Spencer, along with brasses dated 1605 and 1613. These memorials connect the building to the families who lived in the parish in the early 17th century. How old is the parish? A rector of Everdon is recorded in 1218, which shows that the parish was well established in the early 13th century. In the 19th century the living was in the patronage of Eton College. Has the church been restored? Yes. The building was restored around 1860 and again in 1891-92 by the architects Bodley and Garner, well-known names in Victorian church architecture. Such restorations were common in the 19th century and helped secure the fabric of many medieval churches. How do I find it? The coordinates are approximately 52.2119 N, 1.1311 W. Everdon lies in the Daventry District, not in the town of Daventry itself, so check the village name when planning a visit. Frequently asked questions Is the Church of St Mary in Everdon a listed building? Yes, it has Grade I status, the highest level of protection in England. What style is it? Mainly Decorated from the early 14th century, with a Perpendicular clerestory and 15th-century alterations. What can I see inside? Two medieval glass shields, a 1606 wall monument to Thomas and Dorothy Spencer, and brasses from 1605 and 1613. Who restored the church? It was restored around 1860 and again in 1891-92 by Bodley and Garner. What is the building made of? Local ironstone.

Kirk of the Canongate

Edinburgh

The Kirk of the Canongate (Canongate Kirk) is a parish church on Edinburgh's Royal Mile, in the Old Town. A congregation of the Church of Scotland, it has served for more than three centuries as the place of worship for one of the capital's most distinguished districts. Beside it lies a kirkyard where several figures of the Scottish Enlightenment are buried. What is the Kirk of the Canongate? It is a working Church of Scotland congregation serving the Parish of Canongate. Within its bounds stand the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Scottish Parliament. The kirk is also the parish church of Edinburgh Castle, even though the castle sits apart from the rest of the parish. That link to palace, parliament and castle gives the church a strongly ceremonial character. How did the church come about? Construction ran from 1688 to 1690 to a design by James Smith, although some sources give 1691 as the year of completion. Canongate parishioners had previously worshipped in Holyrood Abbey, but James VII claimed that building for his own purposes, with the abbey to become a chapel of the Order of the Thistle. A new church for the parish was therefore commissioned. Its cost was met by an earlier bequest to the Town Council from Thomas Moodie of Sachtenhall, a merchant, made for the purpose of building a church. Who is buried in the kirkyard? The adjoining Canongate Kirkyard is A-listed. Among those buried here are the economist Adam Smith; the poet Robert Fergusson; George Drummond, six times Lord Provost of Edinburgh and a driving force behind the New Town; and Agnes Maclehose, the "Clarinda" of Robert Burns's poems. Burns himself paid for Fergusson's headstone. Outside the kirkyard gate stands a bronze statue of Fergusson by David Annand. Royal and public occasions Queen Elizabeth II attended services here on some of her frequent visits to Edinburgh. On 30 July 2011 the church hosted the wedding of Zara Phillips, the Queen's granddaughter, and Mike Tindall, the former England rugby captain. Frequently asked questions Where is the Kirk of the Canongate? In Edinburgh's Old Town, on the lower stretch of the Royal Mile, close to the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Scottish Parliament. When was it built? Between 1688 and 1690, with some sources giving 1691 for completion. The designer was James Smith. Is Adam Smith buried here? Yes, in the kirkyard, alongside Robert Fergusson and George Drummond. Is the church still in use? Yes, it is an active Church of Scotland parish, so visitors should be mindful of services and worshippers. What else is nearby? The Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Scottish Parliament and the ruins of Holyrood Abbey are all a short walk away.

Clifton Cathedral

Bristol

Clifton Cathedral (the Cathedral Church of SS Peter and Paul) is a Roman Catholic cathedral in the Clifton district of Bristol, and one of England's most striking examples of late Brutalist church architecture. It is the seat of the Diocese of Clifton, which brings together 105 parishes across Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and Somerset. Why visit? This is not the cathedral most visitors picture. Instead of Gothic spires and pointed arches, you get a raw, geometric concrete building whose interior surprises with light and a sense of gathering around the altar. For anyone interested in twentieth-century architecture, it is a must-see in Bristol. How did the cathedral come about? The diocese's cathedral was approved in 1965, after the Second Vatican Council. The commission went to the Percy Thomas Partnership, with Ronald Weeks as lead architect, working alongside F.S. Jennett and Antoni Poremba. It was the first cathedral designed in response to the Council's liturgical emphasis on essentials, with the congregation drawn close to the altar and decoration kept restrained. Construction ran until 1973 (the start is given as 1969 or 1970), and the cathedral was consecrated on 29 June 1973. Since 2000 it has been listed Grade II*. What does the building look like? The interior holds about 1,000 people, seated in a cluster around the high altar. The roof is made of offset, overlapping hexagons and part-hexagons that rise in three layers to a hexagonal, pyramidal cupola above the sanctuary. The concrete was originally board-marked, cast against planks of coarse-grained Russian Redwood, which gave the walls a distinctive grain. Stained glass and art The narthex windows by Henry Haig use the dalle de verre technique, with thick pieces of glass set in a matrix. They contain roughly 8,000 pieces of glass and glow with deep colour. Any problems with the building? The cathedral was praised for its restraint, but it was never fully watertight. Despite numerous attempts to fix it, the leaks went unresolved. From 2015, Purcell carried out a repair programme that included replacing 86 tons of lead on the roof. The cathedral stayed open throughout, holding eight masses a week as well as baptisms, weddings and funerals. Frequently asked questions Where is Clifton Cathedral? In Clifton, a western district of Bristol, England. Its coordinates are about 51.4597 N, 2.6163 W. Who designed it? Ronald Weeks of the Percy Thomas Partnership, together with F.S. Jennett and Antoni Poremba. When was it built? Construction finished in 1973, and it was consecrated on 29 June that year. What style is it? Late Brutalism, with a concrete structure and a plan based on hexagons. Is it a working church? Yes. It is the cathedral of the Diocese of Clifton and holds regular services, so plan your visit around them.

St Bride's Church, City of London

London

St Bride's Church is an Anglican church on Fleet Street in the City of London, often called the "journalists' church". Its tall, tiered steeple is one of the most recognisable landmarks around Ludgate Circus. What is the history of St Bride's? The church is dedicated to St Bridget of Kildare, and tradition places a site of worship here as early as the 6th century. The present building is at least the seventh church on the site. Its predecessor burned down in the Great Fire of London in 1666, and Christopher Wren was commissioned to design the replacement, which went up in the 1670s as part of his well-known series of post-fire churches. In 1940, during the Blitz, the interior was gutted. Only the outer walls and the steeple survived. The church was rebuilt in the 1950s, with part of the cost covered by the major Fleet Street newspapers. Why is the steeple so famous? The steeple is roughly 69 to 71 metres tall (sources give slightly different figures) and is counted among the tallest of Wren's towers, second only to St Paul's Cathedral. It rises in several stages that narrow toward the top, giving it a distinctive layered profile. According to a popular legend, that profile inspired the shape of the traditional tiered wedding cake, with the story usually tied to a baker near Ludgate Circus. It is a folk tale rather than documented fact, so treat it as a fun curiosity. What is the connection with the press? For centuries Fleet Street was home to printers, publishers and newspaper offices. Many press workers worshipped at St Bride's when their offices and print works stood nearby. Newspapers began leaving the street in the 1980s, and the exodus ended symbolically in 2005 when Reuters departed. The church keeps the tradition alive with an annual carol service for journalists and a November service remembering media workers who died in the line of duty. A memorial in the north aisle honours journalists killed while working. Any other notable links? Samuel Pepys, author of the famous diary of Restoration London, was baptised here. If you are interested in 17th-century London, that is one more reason to step inside. Frequently asked questions Where is St Bride's Church? On Fleet Street in the City of London, near Ludgate Circus. Coordinates: about 51.5138 N, 0.1058 W. Was the church designed by Wren? Yes, the current building was designed by Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of London. It was rebuilt after the damage of 1940. Why is it called the journalists' church? Because of its position on Fleet Street, the historic centre of British newspapers, and its traditions of services and commemorations for media workers. Is it true the steeple inspired the wedding cake? It is a popular legend with no documentary proof, but guides like to repeat it. Who is this place for? Architecture fans and anyone interested in London history or the press. A visit fits well into a walk between St Paul's Cathedral and the Temple.

Leicester's Church (remains)

Leicester's Church in Denbigh, north Wales, is the ruin of an Elizabethan church that was begun but never completed. It is a Grade I listed building and a scheduled monument, and it stands today as a roofless shell, a reminder of an ambitious plan that stopped halfway. Who built Leicester's Church and why? The church was commissioned by Robert Dudley, 1st Earl of Leicester, one of the most powerful figures of Elizabethan England and the lord of Denbigh at the time. Work began in the sixteenth century, and the building was designed on a scale far larger than an ordinary parish church. Sources describe it as the first large church built specifically for Protestant worship, which makes it an unusual monument in the history of British architecture. Its purpose may have gone beyond local worship. The plan is linked to an intention of moving the seat of the diocese from St Asaph to Denbigh. Had the project been finished, Denbigh could have gained the status of a cathedral town, shifting church authority in this part of Wales. Why was it never finished? Money was the first obstacle. Financial difficulties brought construction to a halt in 1584. The Earl then died unexpectedly in 1588, and with his death the project was abandoned. Dudley left no heir, and his estates reverted to the Crown, so nobody was left with the means or the motivation to continue the work. Since then the building has remained an empty, open enclosure. The walls stand, but there is no roof, and the interior is open to the sky. The legend of the night-time demolition A popular local story says that townspeople tore down at night whatever the builders raised during the day. Historians treat this as a romantic tale, retold by later antiquarians. The more sober explanation is simpler: the scheme was too ambitious, its cost too high, and the patron's death ended it. Visiting Leicester's Church today The ruin is cared for by Cadw, the Welsh government's historic environment service. It can be viewed from the outside, which makes it an easy stop for anyone exploring Denbigh and its medieval and Tudor heritage. Parking and toilets are available at Denbigh Castle during the castle's opening hours, and the church stands in the same historic part of town. Quick facts Location: Denbigh, Denbighshire, Wales Status: Grade I listed building, scheduled monument Builder: Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester Construction halted: 1584 Project abandoned: after the Earl's death in 1588 Condition: roofless ruin, external viewing Managed by: Cadw Frequently asked questions Was Leicester's Church ever used for services? No. Construction stopped before the church was completed, and it has remained an unroofed shell. Who was Robert Dudley? The Earl of Leicester, a leading nobleman of Elizabethan England, who commissioned the church while holding Denbigh. Why is the church important? It is a rare example of a large church planned for Protestant worship, and it is tied to the idea of relocating the diocesan seat from St Asaph to Denbigh. Can I go inside? Sources describe the site as viewable externally. Check Cadw's information before your visit for current access arrangements. Is there parking nearby? Yes, at Denbigh Castle during its opening hours, where toilets are also available.

Church of St Kenelm, Hinton Parva

Stanbridge

The Church of St Kenelm in Hinton Parva is a small parish church in Dorset, southern England, in the countryside near the hamlet of Stanbridge. The building is largely Victorian, yet it keeps valuable medieval fragments, and its dedication is unusual for England. Where is St Kenelm's Church? The church stands in Hinton Parva, in the East Dorset area not far from Wimborne Minster, at roughly 50.8338 N, 1.9950 W. This is quiet rural land, so a car or bicycle is the easiest way to arrive, and a short visit pairs well with a walk in the surrounding countryside. How was the present church built? The existing building was largely rebuilt around 1860. During the work, two parts of the earlier church were reused: the 12th-century chancel arch and an east window from the late 13th century. As a result, a Victorian structure carries clear traces of Romanesque and Gothic craftsmanship. The earlier church was described by the 18th-century county historian John Hutchins. In his account it was a very small stone building with a single nave and one bell. That modest scale suits the tiny settlement Hinton Parva has always been. A Romanesque carving and a rare dedication Built into the church is a Romanesque sculpture that researchers read as St Kenelm himself, dated to the first quarter of the 12th century. It is the oldest piece of the building's fabric and the detail most worth seeking out. According to tradition, Kenelm was a young ruler of early medieval Mercia, venerated across medieval England. Nine English churches carry his dedication, and the one in Hinton Parva is the only one outside the bounds of 9th-century Mercia. For anyone interested in church history, that makes this unassuming spot a real curiosity. What does the name Hinton mean? Hinton Parva is not recorded separately in the Domesday Book. As late as 1831 the church was described as a chapel belonging to Wimborne Minster. The name Hinton is often explained as "monks' farm", hinting at a link with the monastery at Wimborne. Heritage status St Kenelm's is a Grade II listed building on the National Heritage List for England. The listing covers the 19th-century church together with the older elements incorporated in it. Frequently asked questions How old is the church? The present building dates from about 1860, but it contains a 12th-century arch, a late 13th-century window and a Romanesque carving. What makes it special? Of the nine English churches dedicated to St Kenelm, it is the only one outside the 9th-century kingdom of Mercia. Can I go inside? Check current local information before travelling, as small rural churches often have limited access. What else is nearby? The nearest major sight is Wimborne Minster, with which this area was historically connected.

St Cynwyd's Church

St Cynwyd's Church stands in Llangynwyd, in Bridgend County Borough, South Wales. It is a historic church with medieval roots and a Grade II* listing from Cadw, which places it among the buildings regarded as particularly important nationally. Where is the church? The church sits in the village of Llangynwyd, south of Maesteg, at roughly 51.587 N, 3.651 W. A churchyard enclosed by stone walls surrounds the building, and a path lined with memorials leads to the south porch. How old is the church? Tradition links the site with St Cynwyd and a sixth-century foundation. A church is recorded here in 1173. A rebuilding in the 13th century is reported, and fragments of that earlier church are kept in the porch. The present building dates from the 14th century, while the square tower is 15th century. What did the restorations change? Work is recorded in 1688 and again in 1891-93. The later restoration was carried out by G. E. Halliday of Cardiff at a cost of 3,000 pounds, paid for by Miss Olive Talbot of Margam Castle. It removed a bridge-style gallery from the nave. Why did pilgrims come here? In the medieval period the church was associated with a venerated crucifix. The Crucifixion carving on the rood screen was credited with miraculous powers, drawing pilgrims and inspiring poems from local bards. Today the church appears in listings of British pilgrimage places. The churchyard legend According to local tradition, the churchyard holds Ann and Wil, the figures of a Welsh love story connected with the poet Wil Hopcyn. For many visitors this is a reason to stop here. What else is worth knowing? The church belongs to the Llangynwyd with Maesteg benefice in the Diocese of Llandaff. Groups of tombs and memorials in the churchyard, and its boundary walls, are separately listed. On a visit, look at the tower, the porch with its older fragments, and the layout of the graveyard. Frequently asked questions Is the church a protected building? Yes, it is Grade II* listed by Cadw. When was the present building constructed? The church dates from the 14th century, the tower from the 15th, and fragments of a 13th-century church survive in the porch. When was it restored? In 1688 and in 1891-93. Which legend is tied to the place? The story of Ann and Wil and the poet Wil Hopcyn, linked to the churchyard. Which diocese does it belong to? The Diocese of Llandaff, within the Llangynwyd with Maesteg benefice.

Raleigh Road United Church

Londyn

Raleigh Road United Church in Richmond Raleigh Road United Church stands at the corner of Raleigh Road and Stanmore Gardens in Richmond, in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames. It is a joint congregation formed from two former churches, one Methodist and one Congregational, and today it belongs to both the Methodist Church and the United Reformed Church (URC). How did this church come about? The congregation has two roots. The Methodist strand goes back to 1868, and its former name was Kew Road Methodist Church. The Congregational strand began in 1898 with the founding of St Paul's Congregational Church. Its construction was largely funded by Alderman Sir Charles Burt, a former mayor of Richmond and a leading member of the Vineyard Congregational Church. Over time the congregation became St Paul's United Reformed Church, and after joining with the Methodists it took its present name. Why St Paul for a nonconformist church? The dedication was unusual for a nonconformist church, since saints' names were more commonly used by Anglican churches. Sir Charles Burt saw parallels between the missionary work of the apostle Paul and the tasks of the new church. The site was chosen to be far from the Vineyard church and from existing churches of other denominations. What happened during the war? On 1 October 1940 a bomb came through the roof and exploded inside the building. The structure was damaged beyond repair, though it shielded the surrounding area from casualties. During the war the congregation used a hall at the Barn Church. In 1949 it moved into temporary government buildings erected on Raleigh Road. The current building was completed in 1956. Getting there and what to expect The church is in west London, at the junction of Raleigh Road and Stanmore Gardens, at roughly 51.4677 N, 0.2909 W. It is a modest stop for visitors interested in local religious history and postwar rebuilding rather than a major sightseeing attraction. It pairs easily with a walk around Richmond. Frequently asked questions Is the church active? Yes. It is a working congregation of the Methodist Church and the United Reformed Church. The URC directory lists a Sunday service at 11:00. When was the current building completed? In 1956, after the earlier church was destroyed by a bomb in 1940. Who paid for the first church? Mainly Alderman Sir Charles Burt, a former mayor of Richmond. Which churches were merged? The Methodist Kew Road Methodist Church (roots in 1868) and the Congregational St Paul's (1898). Where exactly is it? At the corner of Raleigh Road and Stanmore Gardens in Richmond, London. Is it a historic landmark with long architectural heritage? The present building dates from the 1950s, so its interest lies chiefly in the story of a congregation that survived the war and rebuilt its home.

Bethel Community Church

Newport

Bethel Community Church is a historic Gothic Revival chapel on Stow Hill in Newport, South Wales. The building stands on the corner of Wesley Place, almost opposite School Lane, and is protected as a Grade II listed building. For anyone interested in Victorian architecture, it is one of the more rewarding stops on a walk through the older part of the city. What is the history of the building? The chapel was built as a Wesleyan place of worship in the early 1880s. Construction was under way in 1883, and it most likely opened in 1884. It was designed by Habershon and Fawckner, a well-known Newport firm and one of the most influential local architectural practices of the period. The official listing describes it as an impressive Gothic chapel, which sums up its presence well. The original scheme was ambitious. The main body of the chapel could seat about 580 people, with room for another 393 in the galleries. Beneath the worship space were a large school-room, six class-rooms, a warming chamber and other service areas. This arrangement was typical of large Nonconformist chapels, where congregational life included Sunday school and community activities as well as services. What does the chapel look like from outside? The style is Decorated Gothic. The walls are built of pennant stone, while the dressings, such as window surrounds and ornamental details, are in pale Bath stone. The contrast between darker walling and lighter carved stonework gives the facade a distinctive look. On the Stow Hill side rises a tower with a spire, which defines the building and is easy to spot from the street. What is it used for today? Bethel Community Church bought the building in the early 1960s and adapted it for new needs. The lower level is used for schoolrooms and community activities, while the worship area sits at street level. The former Wesleyan chapel therefore continues to serve both a religious and a community role. What should you know before visiting? It is a working church, so access to the interior depends on service times and the congregation's availability. Check current information beforehand. The exterior can be admired at any time of day from Stow Hill and Wesley Place. Look closely at the proportions of the tower and spire and at the pairing of pennant stone with Bath stone. The chapel fits neatly into a route focused on Victorian architecture and Nonconformist heritage in Wales. Frequently asked questions Is Bethel Community Church a listed building? Yes, it is Grade II listed. Who designed the chapel? The Newport architects Habershon and Fawckner. What architectural style is it? Decorated Gothic, with a tower and spire facing Stow Hill. Where exactly is it? On Stow Hill in Newport, at the corner of Wesley Place, almost opposite School Lane. Is it still a place of worship? Yes, the Bethel Community Church congregation meets here, and the building also serves the local community.

St Mary's Church, Burham

Tonbridge and Malling

St Mary's Church in Burham is a quiet medieval church in Kent, standing on the Pilgrims' Way above the valley of the River Medway. It no longer serves a regular congregation, yet it remains one of the most atmospheric heritage stops in the Tonbridge and Malling area. What is St Mary's Church in Burham? St Mary's is a redundant Anglican church, which means it is no longer used for regular parish worship. It lies about 1 kilometre (0.6 mi) west of the village of Burham, away from the houses, in open countryside. The building is recorded in the National Heritage List for England as a Grade I listed building, the highest level of protection, given to structures of exceptional interest. Today it is looked after by the Churches Conservation Trust, a charity that cares for historic churches that are no longer needed for regular services but are too important to lose. Where is it and how do you get there? The church sits directly on the Pilgrims' Way, the old route walked for centuries across the south of England. It overlooks the River Medway, so a visit combines history with a wide view over the river valley. The coordinates are roughly 51.3313 N, 0.4626 E. Because the church stands apart from the village, it suits walkers, cyclists and anyone exploring the North Downs landscape on foot rather than by car. What can you see? The church dates back to the 12th century, with additions and alterations made up to the 15th century. The west tower is generally dated to the 14th century. Over the years the building has changed: the north and south aisles were pulled down at some point, which gives the church a more compact form than its original plan. Roman tiles, taken from nearby Romano-British villas, are among the oldest materials found in its fabric, a reminder that people were building and living in this part of Kent long before the Middle Ages. Inside and out, the church is simple and unrestored in feel. Visitors come for the stonework, the age of the walls and the stillness of the setting rather than for grand decoration. Why is the church redundant? The village of Burham gradually moved away from the church site, up towards higher ground, and the old building ended up isolated on the hillside. Accounts of exactly when it stopped being used differ, so it is safest to say it fell out of regular use during the 19th century. Later it was rescued from decay, and it is now cared for by the Churches Conservation Trust, with support from a local group, the Friends of St Mary's, Burham. Frequently asked questions Is St Mary's Church in Burham still used for services? It is not used for regular worship, as it is a redundant church under the care of the Churches Conservation Trust. Is there an entry fee? Check the Churches Conservation Trust website before you travel for current opening arrangements and access information. What level of heritage protection does it have? It is a Grade I listed building, which places it among the most significant historic buildings in England. Is it on a walking route? Yes. It stands on the Pilgrims' Way and looks across the River Medway, which makes it a natural stop on a walk along the North Downs. When was it built? The church originates in the 12th century, with later changes up to the 15th century, and a west tower usually dated to the 14th century.

St John the Evangelist's Church, Kirkham

Fylde

St John the Evangelist's Church in Kirkham, known locally as The Willows, is a Roman Catholic parish church on Ribby Road in Kirkham, Lancashire, in the Fylde area. It was built between 1842 and 1845 to a design by Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin, one of the leading architects of the British Gothic Revival. The building is Grade II listed and remains an active place of worship. Why is it called The Willows? A chapel dedicated to the Holy Cross opened on this site in 1809, built by Fr William Irving. Willow trees grew around it, and the chapel became known as The Willows. The name stuck and is still used today, even though the present church replaced the original chapel. Who designed the church, and when was it consecrated? The architect was Pugin, famous for his work on the interiors of the Palace of Westminster. The Kirkham church is his only church in the Fylde. Construction ran from 1842 to 1845, and Bishop Brown of Liverpool consecrated it on 22 April 1845. Local tradition holds that it rang out the first peal of bells from a Catholic church since the Reformation. What does the building look like? The church is built of sandstone with slate roofs, in the Gothic Revival style that Pugin championed as a return to medieval church architecture. The churchyard wall and gateway to the south are separately listed at Grade II. This part of the complex dates from 1845 and is also by Pugin. How has the interior changed? Significant alterations were made by Fr Francis John Gillow, parish priest from 1895 to 1927. He lowered the floor by about two feet and removed the entrance steps at the west door. He moved the rood screen to the back of the church, and altered, extended and refurnished the sacristy. Around 1906 the present pulpit, altar rails and high altar in Carrara marble were installed. Who should visit? Fans of Victorian architecture and Pugin's work, usually associated with larger places than Kirkham. Anyone interested in the history of English Catholicism after the Reformation. Travellers exploring the Fylde coast and the area between Preston and Blackpool. Frequently asked questions Is the church still in use? Yes, it is an active parish church, so visiting times depend on services. Please be quiet and respectful of worshippers. Where is it? On Ribby Road in Kirkham, a town in Lancashire. Is it a listed building? Yes, both the church and the churchyard wall and gateway are Grade II listed. What does The Willows mean? The name comes from the willow trees that grew around the earlier chapel of 1809. Who built it? It was designed by A. W. N. Pugin and built between 1842 and 1845.

Smyrna Congregational Chapel and Hall

Smyrna Congregational Chapel and Hall is a Congregational chapel with an attached hall, listed at Grade II. It stands in Llangefni on the Isle of Anglesey in north Wales, on Glanhwfa Road, opposite the Shire Hall. Where is the chapel? The building sits on the west side of Glanhwfa Road, set back slightly from the street. The Shire Hall faces it across the road, which makes the spot easy to find. The coordinates are roughly 53.254 N, 4.312 W. The chapel lies in the centre of Llangefni, the island's historic administrative town, so it fits naturally into a short walk through the centre. What is its history? The first chapel on the site dates from 1844. The present building went up in 1903 and replaced that earlier place of worship. A tablet on the front records both dates, reading "Smyrna, Independent House of Worship" with the years of building (1844) and rebuilding (1903). Anglesey Archives also mention an earlier rebuild in 1870. The name Smyrna is typical of Welsh Nonconformist chapels, many of which took biblical place names. Congregationalists, known in Wales as Annibynwyr (Independents), ran self-governing congregations, and the chapel served as the centre of religious and social life for each of them. What does the building look like? The chapel is a gable-entry design. A hall stands alongside, linked to the chapel by a vestibule at the rear. The front is in a simple Classical style, built of snecked rubble, which is rough stone laid in neat courses, with freestone dressings around the openings and corners. Why is it listed? Cadw, the Welsh heritage agency, listed the building on 16 June 1989 and amended the entry in 1998. The listing describes it as a well preserved early twentieth-century chapel. It forms part of an excellent group of civic and religious buildings put up at the turn of the century, together with the neighbouring buildings along this street. Frequently asked questions Where is Smyrna Chapel? In Llangefni, Anglesey, on Glanhwfa Road, opposite the Shire Hall. When was it built? The present chapel dates from 1903. An earlier chapel stood on the site from 1844. Is it a listed building? Yes, it is Grade II listed in Wales. Can I go inside? The building is mainly appreciated from the street. Check locally about interior access before you visit. What is nearby? The neighbouring Shire Hall and the centre of Llangefni, with its late nineteenth and early twentieth-century architecture.

St Mary's Church, Bodewryd

Llanfechell

St Mary's Church in Bodewryd is a small medieval church in a hamlet on Anglesey, in north Wales, within the community of Llanfechell. It is easy to overlook, yet it combines centuries of local history with one of the more unusual stories among Welsh parish churches. How old is St Mary's Church in Bodewryd? Nobody knows exactly when the church was built. Records show that a church already stood on this site in 1254, so the place of worship is at least that old. The earliest feature that can be given a date is a doorway in a 15th-century style, made around 1500. That doorway is a good reminder that the building has been altered and repaired many times over the centuries, as is typical for small rural churches. What happened in 1867? In 1867 the church was restored after it was struck by lightning. Rebuilding after such damage gave the parish a chance to renew the interior and the windows. The restoration was paid for with the help of a benefactor, Lord Stanley of Alderley, and this is where the story becomes remarkable. Why does a Welsh church have Islamic-style windows? The benefactor, Lord Stanley of Alderley, was a convert to Islam. He is identified as Henry Edward John Stanley, the third Baron Stanley of Alderley (1827-1903). As a condition of his support, the restored church was to include stained glass with Islamic-influenced patterns. As a result, the windows of this small Anglican church differ from the ones you would expect in a country chapel. For visitors interested in religious history, architecture or the cultural connections of Victorian Britain, these windows are the main reason to stop here. Is the church still in use? Yes. St Mary's belongs to the Church in Wales and is one of five churches in a combined parish, so it remains part of local religious life rather than serving only as a monument. It is a Grade II listed building, designated on 12 May 1970, which recognises its architectural and historical value. Practical tips for visitors The church stands in the hamlet of Bodewryd in the north-west of Anglesey, in the Llanfechell area. The setting is rural and quiet, so a car is the most practical way to arrive. Because services are shared between several churches in the parish, it is worth checking in advance whether the building is open on the day you plan to visit. Look closely at the windows and the doorway: they are the two features that best show the building's history, the one from around 1500 and the other from the 1867 restoration. Combine the visit with other places in the Llanfechell area for a short trip around the northern coast of the island. Frequently asked questions When was St Mary's Church in Bodewryd built? The construction date is unknown. A church is recorded here in 1254, and the earliest dateable feature is a doorway from about 1500. Why was the church restored in 1867? It had been struck by lightning and needed repair. What is special about its windows? They contain stained glass with Islamic-influenced patterns, which was a requirement of the benefactor, Lord Stanley of Alderley, who had converted to Islam. Is it a listed building? Yes, it is Grade II listed, since 12 May 1970. Is it still used for worship? Yes, it is used by the Church in Wales as one of five churches in a combined parish.

Church of The Holy Trinity

Llanelli

Church of The Holy Trinity in Felinfoel is a Victorian parish church on the edge of Llanelli, in Carmarthenshire, south-west Wales. It is a Grade II listed building and a quiet stop for anyone interested in church architecture, local history or the industrial heritage of the Llanelli area. Where is the Church of The Holy Trinity? The church stands in the village of Felinfoel, just north of Llanelli town centre. Its coordinates are roughly 51.6994, -4.1439. The building sits prominently in the village, so the spire is easy to spot as you approach. It is a short trip from the centre of Llanelli, and Felinfoel can be combined with a wider visit to the town and the Carmarthenshire coast. When was it built, and why? The church was designed by the architect R. K. Penson and completed in 1857. It was consecrated on Trinity Sunday in 1858. It was built to ease the load on St Ellyw's, the old parish church of Llanelli, as the local population grew with industry in the nineteenth century. Much of the cost was met by the Nevill family, prominent local figures of the period. At first the church still belonged to the parish of Llanelli. In 1879 the separate parish of Felinfoel was formed and Holy Trinity became Felinfoel Parish Church. Later it served as the mother church for two further churches in the parish. What does the building look like? The listing describes a Gothic style church in a large graveyard, which lies to the south of the building. A rubble boundary wall surrounds the churchyard on all sides. At the entrance stands a Gothic style timber lychgate with a tiled roof and steel gates. The original stone spire was later replaced with one covered in green copper, a change dated to the 1960s. The copper gives the church a distinctive profile in the village. What is there to see in the churchyard and inside? In the churchyard you will find a Celtic cross war memorial in granite, a quiet reminder of the local people lost in the wars of the twentieth century. The lychgate and the old boundary wall add to the atmosphere of a traditional Welsh village churchyard. Inside, the church is noted for its stained glass. Three of the windows commemorate members of the Nevill family, linking the interior to the people who paid for the building. Is it worth a visit? Holy Trinity is not a large monument with an extensive visitor programme, so plan on a short stop rather than a full day. It suits people who enjoy exploring listed buildings, reading memorials and photographing Victorian Gothic architecture. A walk around the churchyard, a look at the lychgate and the war memorial, and a view of the copper spire make for a pleasant half hour. Frequently asked questions Who designed the Church of The Holy Trinity? The architect was R. K. Penson. The church was finished in 1857. When was it consecrated? On Trinity Sunday in 1858. Is the church listed? Yes, it is a Grade II listed building. What is the war memorial in the churchyard? A Celtic cross made of granite, standing in the grounds. Who paid for the church? Mostly the Nevill family, who are also remembered in three of the stained glass windows. Why is the spire green? The original stone spire was replaced with a copper one, which has weathered to green. The change dates from the 1960s.

Congregational Church, Hoylake

Hoylake

Congregational Church, Hoylake is a Gothic Revival church on Station Road on the Wirral peninsula in Merseyside, England, recorded as a Grade II listed building. Built in red brick in the early 20th century, it recalls the years when Hoylake grew into a prosperous seaside town and local congregations raised handsome places of worship. Where is it and how do you get there? The church stands on Station Road, close to Hoylake railway station, which makes it an easy stop for visitors travelling out from Liverpool on the Wirral line. It sits in the middle of town, so a look at the building fits naturally into a walk towards the promenade and the beach. Who designed it and when was it built? The architects were Douglas and Minshull of Chester. The foundation stone was laid in March 1905 and the church opened in May 1906. They chose the Gothic Revival style, a favourite for church building of the period, especially among Congregational and other Nonconformist congregations in England. What does the building look like? The walls are red brick with sandstone dressings under a slate roof. The nave has five bays with aisles, there are transepts, and the east end finishes in a polygonal apse. Inside, the walls are faced in sandstone ashlar, giving the interior a light, warm feel. One notable absence is the slender fleche that once rose over the crossing: it was lost to wartime damage and never replaced, so the skyline differs from the original design. What happened during the war? In 1940 the church was hit by incendiary bombs and badly damaged by fire. Repair took years, and the building reopened in 1950. That chapter is an important part of the story of a church that came through one of the hardest periods in the history of the Wirral. How has the congregation changed? It began as a Congregational church. In 1972 the congregation joined the United Reformed Church. The building later passed to an independent evangelical congregation, which meets here as Hope Church Wirral. In the national heritage list the building appears under the name Hoylake Chapel. Frequently asked questions Is the church a listed building? Yes. It has Grade II status in the National Heritage List for England, granted in January 1991. Can you go inside? It is a working place of worship, so check service times or event details before visiting. The exterior can be admired at any time. Who is it best suited to? Fans of Gothic Revival architecture, those interested in Second World War history in Britain, and anyone exploring the Wirral who wants something beyond the beach and the golf links. How long does a visit take? Viewing the outside usually takes fifteen to thirty minutes, longer if you linger over the brickwork and sandstone detailing.

St George's Church

St George's Church in Reynoldston is a Victorian parish church standing in the middle of the village on the Gower Peninsula, near Swansea in Wales. The building is a Gothic Revival design, yet it shelters several objects far older than the walls themselves, which makes it a rewarding stop on a walk through Gower. How did the village and its church begin? Reynoldston dates to the early 13th century. According to tradition, the settlement and its first church were founded by the Norman lord Reginald (Reynald) de Breos, whose name lives on in the village's name. There is no Welsh name for Reynoldston, which suits its Norman origins. Why is the dedication to St George unusual? Churches dedicated to St George are rare in Wales, where most medieval dedications honour local Celtic saints. An English patron saint sets this church apart in the region and recalls the Norman influence on Gower. What does the present building look like? The medieval church fell into disrepair and was pulled down by 1866. Its replacement went up in 1866-7 in an Early English Gothic Revival style, designed by architect J. P. Seddon in partnership with John Pritchard. Little of the earlier church remains: only a blocked lancet window in the south wall of the chancel. Since 10 February 2000 the church has been a Grade II listed building, recorded by Cadw. What can you see inside? A Norman font carved from a single block of stalagmite taken from a local cave. A stone pulpit with a relief of St George slaying the dragon. A pillar cross, dated to the 9th century, brought indoors in 1977 so the stone is protected from weathering. A stained glass window by Nathaniel Westlake, dated 1905, by a well-known glass artist of the Victorian and Edwardian era. Frequently asked questions Where is St George's Church? In the centre of Reynoldston, on the Gower Peninsula in the City and County of Swansea, South Wales. Is the church old? There has been a church here since the early 13th century, but the current building dates from 1866-7. Older elements survive inside, including the font, the cross and a fragment of window in the chancel. Is it a protected building? Yes. It holds Grade II listed status granted by Cadw. Who will enjoy a visit? Anyone interested in church architecture, medieval history, or village walks on Gower. A visit is usually short, so it pairs well with a hike over the nearby hills and along the peninsula's coast. What makes the interior special? A mix of objects from different eras: a Norman stalagmite font, an early medieval cross and a Victorian pulpit showing St George and the dragon give a small village church a surprisingly rich collection. Reynoldston is a quiet village and the church is its natural landmark. For a traveller it is a good place to see several layers of history together: Norman beginnings, early medieval carving and a Victorian rebuild.

Melincwrt Independent Chapel

Resolven

Melincwrt Independent Chapel, Resolven Melincwrt Independent Chapel is a historic Congregationalist chapel on the hillside above Resolven, in the Neath valley of South Wales. Completed at the end of the 18th century, it is one of the older surviving Nonconformist chapels in the area and holds Grade II* listed status. What is the history of the chapel? The congregation formed in the 18th century. Its members first met in local houses around Melincourt, and one listing says the cause began among workers at the Melincwrt iron works. In an industrial valley with a growing population, shared worship and Bible study were central to daily life. The chapel was finished in 1799 and opened in 1800. It measures about 9.75 m by 6.7 m, a small and plain building. Records mention alterations made between 1850 and 1854, which may have included raising the roof. Why was a new chapel built? Over time the congregation outgrew the old building, which stood outside the village. In 1875 a new chapel named Jerusalem was built in Resolven itself, and it was extended in 1902-1903. Jerusalem Independent Chapel is a separate Grade II listed building, and its listing states that it was built to succeed the older chapel at Melincwrt. What can you see? The interior is the main attraction. It is described as exceptional, with a primitive simplicity. Features include: a stone-flagged floor, a white-painted gallery, box pews, some made with older re-used woodwork. The layout shows what rural places of worship in Wales looked like around 1800, before larger and more ornate chapels became common. What is the chapel like today? A walker's account of St Illtud's Walk describes it as an abandoned Independent chapel, established in 1799. It stands as a quiet heritage building rather than an active place of worship. Because it sits in a fairly remote spot, check current access and ground conditions before you visit. Frequently asked questions Where is the chapel? Above and southwest of Resolven, in Neath Port Talbot. The coordinates are roughly 51.7017 N, 3.69977 W. When was it built? It was completed in 1799 and opened in 1800. Is it the same as Jerusalem chapel? No. Jerusalem is a newer chapel in the centre of Resolven, built in 1875, which took over from the old building. Why is the name spelled differently? Sources use Melincwrt and Melincourt, and also the name Cwmsyfirig. Is it a listed building? Yes, it is Grade II* listed by Cadw. Who is it for? The chapel suits anyone interested in sacred architecture, the history of Nonconformism and the industrial past of Wales. It is a good stop for walkers exploring the hills of the Neath valley who want to see how rural faith looked in the early industrial age. A visit takes little time, yet it helps explain why so many chapels fill the Welsh valleys and why they remain part of the landscape. Combine it with a walk into central Resolven, where its successor, Jerusalem, still stands.

Harrogate Baptist Church

Harrogate Baptist Church is a Victorian Gothic church on Victoria Avenue in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, England. It is a Grade II listed building, and its tower and spire form a recognisable landmark on one of the town's best-known avenues. What is Harrogate Baptist Church? The church is an active Baptist place of worship dating from the early 1880s. Historic England records it as a Grade II listed building, first listed on 4 February 1975, and describes it as a Gothic design of around 1883 with a tower and spire at the south-west corner. The architect is given as William Peachey, and the church opened in 1883. Where is it and why does the location matter? The church stands on Victoria Avenue, a street laid out by the Victoria Park Company as a showpiece link between High Harrogate and Low Harrogate, the two older parts of the spa town. The company encouraged several denominations, Baptists among them, to buy sites along the avenue. The church is therefore part of the planned Victorian expansion of Harrogate, when the town was growing as a fashionable spa destination. Its coordinates are roughly 53.9916 N, 1.5355 W. What is the history of the congregation? A local history of the church covering the years up to 1912 says the Baptist group first met in a schoolroom on the Victoria Avenue site from May 1878. The church was formally constituted in October 1880 with 38 members. The present building followed in 1883, so the community worshipped on this site for a few years before the church itself was completed. Sources give slightly different dates for some of these stages, so treat the exact years as approximate. What can you see inside and outside? From the street, the main feature is the Gothic exterior, topped by the tower and spire at the south-west corner. Inside, the church has stained glass, a baptistry (the pool used for baptism by immersion in Baptist tradition) and furniture by the Yorkshire craftsman Robert "Mouseman" Thompson, known for the small carved mouse he added to his work. The organ was installed in 1884 by Hill and Son of London. It was rebuilt in 1898 by James Jepson Binns, an organ builder from Leeds. Can you visit? The church has taken part in Heritage Open Days, the annual event that opens historic buildings to the public, and it is listed by the National Churches Trust. Opening arrangements change from year to year, so check the church's own website or the Heritage Open Days listing before you go. It is an active congregation, so be respectful of services and community events if you visit. Frequently asked questions Is Harrogate Baptist Church a listed building? Yes. It is Grade II listed, with the entry first made in 1975. Who designed the church? Wikipedia credits the architect William Peachey, with the church opening in 1883. When was the congregation founded? The group began meeting in a schoolroom on the site in 1878 and was formally constituted as a church in October 1880. What is notable inside? Stained glass, a baptistry, a Hill and Son organ of 1884 rebuilt in 1898, and furniture by Robert "Mouseman" Thompson. Where is it? On Victoria Avenue in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, which links High and Low Harrogate.

Chapel of St Peter at Auckland Castle

Bishop Auckland

Chapel of St Peter at Auckland Castle is a Grade I listed chapel in Bishop Auckland, County Durham, England. It stands inside the Auckland Castle complex, for centuries the country residence of the Bishops of Durham, and it is one of the most unusual church interiors in northern England because it began life as something else entirely. What is the Chapel of St Peter? The building is the private chapel of the Bishop of Durham. It sits within the grounds of Auckland Castle, in the market town of Bishop Auckland. Historic England lists it at Grade I, the highest category, reserved for buildings of exceptional interest. The listing dates from 21 April 1952. How did a great hall become a chapel? The story starts in the 1190s, when Bishop Hugh du Puiset had a great hall built at Auckland. Church of England heritage records describe it as an aisled stone hall, completed in the early 13th century. For a long period it served as a hall for the bishop's household and guests, not as a place of worship. The change came after the English Civil War. Bishop John Cosin, who took up the see after the Restoration, converted the hall into a chapel between 1661 and 1665. His work included rebuilding the south wall and refacing the east and west walls. The chapel was consecrated on St Peter's Day in 1665, which explains its dedication. What makes it worth visiting? The chapel is a rare case of a medieval secular hall reshaped into a church in the 17th century. The structure keeps the proportions of a hall rather than those of a typical parish church, and later bishops continued to adapt the interior. Restoration work took place again in the late 20th century, between 1978 and 1983. For visitors, the chapel is part of a wider visit to Auckland Castle, which is now cared for by the Auckland Castle Trust. It is a good stop for anyone interested in church history, the role of the prince-bishops of Durham, or the architecture of the post-Civil War Restoration period. Frequently asked questions Where is the chapel? In Bishop Auckland, County Durham, within the Auckland Castle grounds. When was it built? The original great hall dates from the 1190s to the early 13th century. Bishop Cosin converted it into a chapel in 1661-1665. Who owns it? It is part of the Auckland Castle complex, which is looked after by the Auckland Castle Trust, and it remains the Bishop of Durham's private chapel. Is it a listed building? Yes. It has been Grade I listed since 21 April 1952. Why is it dedicated to St Peter? It was consecrated on St Peter's Day in 1665, after Cosin's conversion of the hall. Is it worth combining with other sights? Yes. Visit it together with the rest of the castle and the town of Bishop Auckland, which offers a full day of County Durham history in one place. Plan your visit around the castle's opening arrangements, since access to the chapel depends on the wider site. The surrounding town has cafes and shops within easy walking distance, so the chapel fits well into a relaxed half-day or full-day outing in this part of northern England, alongside the castle's state rooms and gardens.

Asterley Methodist Chapel

Asterley Methodist Chapel is a small Methodist chapel in the village of Asterley, in the civil parish of Pontesbury, Shropshire, in western England. It was built in 1834 and is a Grade II listed building. It suits visitors who like to trace local religious history in the English countryside, away from the big attractions. Where is Asterley Methodist Chapel? The chapel stands in Asterley, a small settlement near Pontesbury, west of Shrewsbury and close to the Welsh border. Its coordinates are roughly 52.658 N, 2.926 W. The surroundings are rural, with fields, hills and country lanes, and the chapel itself is a modest building that sits comfortably among the village houses. What is the history of the chapel? A datestone over the door confirms the year 1834. Historic England lists the building as a Primitive Methodist chapel with its attached railings. The Primitive Methodists favoured plain worship and lively preaching, and the movement reached many English villages during the 19th century. A contemporary Methodist account of the opening records that the new chapel stood in a suitable spot and that the stone for it was given by a Mr Tipton. What does the building look like? The chapel is built of stone under a tiled roof, with round-headed windows. A small porch was added to the front in the late 20th century. The interior is simple, and the listing notes that it keeps its open benches, a feature typical of modest village chapels. Memorials and local memory Beside the entrance door, outside, is a stone tablet commemorating the dead of the First World War. Inside hangs a framed Roll of Honour naming local men who died in the Second World War. These details show that the chapel served not only as a place of worship but also as a point of remembrance for the whole local community. Is the chapel still in use? Yes. In July 2019, eight Methodist churches in the area voted to join together as Rea Valley Methodist Churches. Each chapel stays open and they work as a cooperative. In this arrangement Asterley is a "Celebration Chapel", hosting special services four to five times a year. Frequently asked questions Is the chapel a listed building? Yes. It is listed Grade II, the category for buildings of special architectural or historic interest. When was it built? In 1834. The datestone above the entrance confirms the date. Can I go inside? The chapel is in use, but services are held here only a few times a year. Check the Rea Valley Methodist Churches information for dates. What else is there to see nearby? The chapel is a short stop in itself. You can combine a visit with other places in Pontesbury and elsewhere in Shropshire.

South West Essex and Settlement Reform Synagogue

Ilford

South West Essex and Settlement Reform Synagogue, Ilford South West Essex and Settlement Reform Synagogue, known since September 2023 as Oaks Lane Reform Synagogue, is a Reform Jewish congregation in Newbury Park, Ilford, in the London Borough of Redbridge. It stands on Oaks Lane, in the northeast of Greater London, and belongs to the Movement for Reform Judaism. Where is it and what is it? The synagogue is a place of worship for a Reform Jewish community in the Ilford area, in the Borough of Redbridge. Its building on Oaks Lane dates from 1966. The congregation is registered as a charity, and its present leader is Rabbi Jordan Helfman. Wikidata lists the site at roughly 51.577 N, 0.095 E. What is the history of the congregation? The community was founded in 1956 as the S.W. Essex Synagogue. In its earliest years it had no building of its own: members met in private homes, and later the group used the Labour Hall in Ilford. Around 1966 it took the name South-West Essex Reform Synagogue, often shortened to SWERS, and moved into the Oaks Lane address. In 1997 the congregation merged with the Settlement Synagogue, and the combined community adopted the name South West Essex and Settlement Reform Synagogue. For several years after the merger, Sabbath services were also held at the former Settlement Synagogue building in Stepney Green, in east London. Records show this arrangement continuing until at least 2008. In September 2023 the congregation began using the shorter working name Oaks Lane Reform Synagogue, which is the name you are most likely to see on current signs and in everyday use. Why might a visitor be interested? The site is of interest to anyone following the history of Jewish communities in London's eastern suburbs. Its story, from meetings in homes to a purpose-built synagogue and a later merger, reflects how Jewish life shifted from the East End towards Essex and outer London in the second half of the twentieth century. The building is also a good example of a suburban place of worship from the 1960s. How do I get there? The synagogue is on Oaks Lane in Newbury Park, a district of Ilford. Because it is an active place of worship, it is best to contact the community in advance if you want to visit, and to respect the times set aside for services. Frequently asked questions Is it the same as Oaks Lane Reform Synagogue? Yes. Oaks Lane Reform Synagogue is the working name adopted in September 2023 for the South West Essex and Settlement Reform Synagogue. Which movement does it belong to? The Movement for Reform Judaism. When was the congregation founded? In 1956, under the name S.W. Essex Synagogue. What was the Settlement Synagogue? A separate congregation that merged with this one in 1997. Its former building in Stepney Green hosted Sabbath services for some years afterwards. Who leads the congregation? Rabbi Jordan Helfman is named as its current leader.

St Bernadette's, Nunthorpe

Middlesbrough

St Bernadette's in Nunthorpe is a Roman Catholic parish church in Nunthorpe, a suburb of Middlesbrough in North Yorkshire, north-east England. It belongs to the Diocese of Middlesbrough and stands on Gypsy Lane. It is a quiet, modern neighbourhood church rather than a headline monument, and it is best appreciated as exactly that. How did the parish begin? The community's story starts in 1960, when the first Mass in the area was celebrated in Ormesby Village Hall. Catholics in the growing district had no church of their own yet, so they used borrowed space. As a large new estate of middle-class housing grew up on the edge of Middlesbrough, the diocese decided to build a permanent home for the congregation. The first building on Gypsy Lane In the early 1960s a combined church and parish hall went up on Gypsy Lane, designed by architect Frank Swainston. Sources differ on the completion date: the diocese gives 1962, while Taking Stock, the survey of Catholic churches in England and Wales, gives 1963. It was a practical, plain building, created for residents of the new housing area. Rebuilding and consecration About thirty years after opening, the building was worn out and needed renewal. Between 1995 and 1999 it was substantially reworked to become a proper permanent church. Bishop John Crowley consecrated it on 7 September 2000. Taking Stock judges the refurbishment effective, but considers the building itself of no great architectural significance. What to know before visiting Address: Gypsy Lane, Nunthorpe, TS7 0EB. Character: a working parish church, not a museum. Keep quiet and respect any services in progress. Deanery: the parish sits in the Northern Deanery of the Diocese of Middlesbrough. Who it suits: readers interested in post-war church architecture, Teesside local history, or anyone looking for a Mass nearby. Frequently asked questions Where is St Bernadette's? In Nunthorpe, on the southern edge of Middlesbrough, on Gypsy Lane. The coordinates are roughly 54.531 N, 1.182 W. When was the church consecrated? On 7 September 2000, after the rebuilding of 1995 to 1999. Who designed the first building? Architect Frank Swainston, in the early 1960s. Is it an architectural landmark? No. It is a modest neighbourhood church, important mainly to its local community. Which diocese does it belong to? The Roman Catholic Diocese of Middlesbrough. Nunthorpe is a green, largely residential part of the Middlesbrough area. St Bernadette's shows how parishes grew on new estates in the later twentieth century: from Mass in a hired hall, to a simple multi-purpose building, to a consecrated church at the start of the twenty-first. For a visitor exploring the area, it is a short stop about the history of an ordinary community rather than about grand architecture.

Leek Seed Chapel

St Blazey

Leek Seed Chapel, St Blazey Gate Leek Seed Chapel is a Wesleyan Methodist chapel at St Blazey Gate, close to St Blazey in Cornwall. Built in 1824, it is best known for its unusual name and for the story behind it, which is still told in the local community two centuries later. Why is it called Leek Seed Chapel? The name comes from a local legend about the building fund. William Stephens, a local man known as "The Old Gardener", pushed the project forward and collected money for the new chapel. According to the story, intruders came to take the savings. Stephens bluffed them by pointing to a heap on his desk and claiming it was gunpowder that he would set alight. In fact it was only a pile of leek seeds. The frightened would-be thieves left, and the building took its name from the incident. Accounts differ on the details, such as who the robbers were, but the leek seed bluff is the part every version shares. What is the history of the building? The chapel dates from 1824 and opened on Easter Sunday of that year. It belongs to the Methodist tradition that spread widely across Cornwall in the 18th and 19th centuries, when chapels became central to village life. In 1904 the building was restored and refitted to designs by the architect Frederick Charles Jury. Is the chapel protected? Yes. Historic England lists the chapel as Grade II*, a category given to only a small share of listed buildings in England. The listing dates from 1999. The tomb of William Stephens, northwest of the chapel, has its own separate listing, so the founder's grave can be seen close to the building he helped create. What is it like today? The chapel is still a working Methodist church. In 2024 the congregation marked its 200th anniversary with a year of events, including a concert and a flower festival. A Sunday school hall stands alongside the chapel, and local reports noted that it too reached a centenary of its own. Who is it for? The chapel suits visitors interested in Cornish Methodism, nonconformist architecture and local folklore. It is a small site rather than a major attraction, so it fits well into a wider visit to the St Blazey and Par area, near the Cornish coast. Because it is an active place of worship, respect services and community events, and check locally before planning a visit to see the interior. Frequently asked questions Where is Leek Seed Chapel? At St Blazey Gate, near St Blazey, Cornwall, England. When was it built? In 1824. It was restored and refitted in 1904. Why the name? A legend says William Stephens scared off robbers by passing off a pile of leek seed as gunpowder. Is it a listed building? Yes, it is Grade II* listed, and the tomb of William Stephens nearby is listed separately. Is it still in use? Yes, it continues as a Methodist church and celebrated its 200th anniversary in 2024.

Church of St Thomas of Canterbury

London

Church of St Thomas of Canterbury in Fulham, west London, is a Roman Catholic parish church and a rare complete work by the Gothic Revival architect Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin. It is Grade II* listed, which puts it among the most significant historic buildings in the capital. It stands on Rylston Road, a short walk from Parsons Green and Fulham Broadway. Why is this church worth visiting? Pugin is best known for his work on the interiors of the Palace of Westminster, but he also designed churches across Britain and Ireland. St Thomas of Canterbury is usually described as his only complete parish church in London. It shows his belief that a church should be built in the English Gothic style of the late 13th and early 14th centuries, rather than in classical forms. For anyone interested in Victorian architecture or the revival of Catholic life in England, it is a very good place to see those ideas in one building. How did the church come to be built? The Catholic community here began in the 1840s. In 1842 a priest, Fr William Kelly, started a mission in Fulham, opening a school and a place for Mass in a rented room near Parsons Green. At that time Catholics were still a small minority in the area, and the mission grew slowly. The permanent church was founded through the generosity of Elizabeth Bowden, who funded it in memory of her husband. The foundation stone was laid in June 1847, and the church opened the following year, in 1848. The dedication to Thomas of Canterbury, the medieval archbishop and martyr, fits the English Gothic character that Pugin wanted to revive. What does the building look like? From Rylston Road the church presents three gables to the street, with a tower and spire at the north-west corner. The design follows the decorated Gothic of the late 13th and early 14th centuries, with pointed windows and carefully worked stone detail. Inside, the nave is lined with circular columns, and the chancel has no chancel arch, so the space flows toward the altar without a dividing frame. Stained glass by Hardman, the Birmingham firm that worked regularly with Pugin, is part of the original scheme, though glass has had to be replaced over time. What has happened since? Like many London buildings, the church suffered in the Second World War, when its windows were damaged and later replaced. In the 1970s the interior was reordered, a change that altered how some parts of the building are used. The church was later restored, and in 2006 it was re-dedicated after work meant to bring back the character of Pugin's original design. A new altar, modelled on the carvings of the 19th-century interior, was consecrated at that time. Practical tips for visitors Getting there: Fulham Broadway and Parsons Green are the closest Underground stations, and both are within walking distance. Visiting: This is an active parish church, so check service times before you go and be respectful during Mass. Visits outside services depend on the parish's opening hours. Combine with: A walk through Fulham pairs well with the nearby Parsons Green area and the riverside paths of the Thames. Photography: The exterior is best seen from Rylston Road, where the three gables and the tower can be viewed together. Frequently asked questions Who designed the Church of St Thomas of Canterbury in Fulham? A.W.N. Pugin, the leading figure of the Gothic Revival in Britain. Is the church listed? Yes. It is Grade II* listed, a category reserved for particularly important buildings. When was it built? The foundation stone was laid in 1847, and the church opened in 1848. Who paid for it? Elizabeth Bowden funded the church in memory of her husband. Is it the only church of this name in London? No. There is also a church with the same dedication in Woodford Green, so check that you have the Fulham one when planning a visit.