St Michael
Cambridge,
An ancient church building with its roots in the 11th century, years of fascinating history and now a vibrant cafe and community centre with a contemporary feel.
Nestling between Cambridge’s castle mound and the bridge for the road north, St Giles has served the city’s population far longer than the university. St Giles was historically for the poorer 'town' rather than the better heeled 'gowns', and still offers free admission despite being poorly endowed.
Some parts of St Giles date back to 1092. Grade II* listed as of outstanding quality by virtue of its collection of medieval and 18th century survivals, together with 19th century fittings by many of England's leading church decorators including a striking reredos and screen, statues by German craftsmen, panelling by Comper, and glass by Comper and Kempe.
Rebuilt in 1875 from the design of Messrs. Healey of Bradford incorporating elements from the church previously on the site. Reset between the south chapel and south aisle is the early 12th century chancel arch from the former church and a late 12th century doorway has been reset between the north aisle and the vestry. In the south chapel is reset a good mural monument to Nicholas Carre (MD. 1568). There is also a monument to William Wilkins the elder, 1815, the Communion Rails are early 18th century and come from the English church in Rotterdam.
Worship within the Parish of Ascension is liberal catholic in the Anglican church tradition, and the church is shared with the Romanian Orthodox Parish of St John the Evangelist. Inside St Giles is beautiful, spacious, calming and hospitable. Its acoustics, organ and large churchyard make it popular for secular and student communities as well as the religious.
St Giles is kept open whenever possible as a quiet city centre space for prayer and meditation with a peaceful garden which all are welcome to enjoy.
It welcomes musical events, concerts, conferences, celebrations, commemorations, sales for charities including those supporting homeless people, an annual parish Summer Fair and a Christmas Tree Festival. The garden is used for fun days, garden parties and picnics.