St James

St James may be the finest late 19th century polychrome church in the county.

Northampton, Northamptonshire

Opening times

The church is open on Saturday mornings.

Address

St James Road
Northampton
Northamptonshire
NN5 5LE

It exhibits all the qualities of a muscular Christian church built for the town's increasing artisan population during the last quarter of 19th century.

The church was designed by Robert Wheeler and building work commenced in 1868. In form it adopts the Early English style but this is greatly enhanced by the architect’s brilliant orchestration of building materials.

Externally, it is predominantly red brick with stone dressings rising almost shockingly from St James Road, now a busy thoroughfare leading into Northampton from the west. It is unmissable.

Internally it is even richer. Here Wheeler deploys red and black bricks, creating strong geometric patterns on the walls. His stunted columns are in polished pink granite. The near contemporary pulpit takes up the chromatic theme; beige and green marbles on a limestone and brick base. It was not until 1924 that the church was completed and the tower designed by GH Stevenson was built.

  • Spectacular stained glass

  • Social heritage stories

  • National heritage here

  • Magnificent memorials

  • Glorious furnishings

  • Famous connections

  • Enchanting atmosphere

  • Captivating architecture

  • Walkers & cyclists welcome

  • Space to secure your bike

  • Parking within 250m

  • On street parking at church

  • Level access to the main areas

  • Dog friendly

  • Accessible toilets nearby

  • Church of England

Contact information

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