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For centuries this building, the Cathedral of the Sea, has watched, listened and helped the people of Portsmouth navigate the passage of time. It has witnessed war and peace, famous marriages, been bombed and rebuilt and remains a building of greatness and simple enduring beauty.

The inspiration for a dramatic Dickens tale.

It is difficult to accurately date the church's foundation or the present building but It is certainly ancient and parts of a moat remain which once enclosed a good five acres including both the church and adjacent East Mersea Hall.

The present building, funded by rich merchants, was begun around 1400 when Woodbridge was an extremely prosperous port, and despite many changes over the years, we can still rejoice in the beauty and fine craftsmanship visible today.

St James has a number of rare architectural features by master craftsmen including a carved rood screen and reredos, together with stained glass windows.

Grade I Listed church, with maritime connections and unique tales of tragedy, Tudor tower and largest churchyard in southern England.