DerbyshireBONSALLStJames(davidKirkhamPERMISSIONBYEMAIL)1 DavidKirkham

St James

A beautiful church set in the historic mining village of Bonsall in the Peak District with the highest altar in the county.

Bonsall, Derbyshire

Opening times

Open daily from 9am til 6pm every day of the year.

Address

Church Street
Bonsall
Derbyshire
DE4 2AE

St James Church, is on a principle footpath route into the Peak District National Park and the church is recognised as being a very clear sign of an early Christian centre. 

Features within the building, including the north wall of the chancel, which houses the highest altar above the nave along with the lancet windows which date back to the 13th century. The tower, spire and north aisle were added in the first half of the 14th century. The handsome spire has an embattled parapet and two ornamental bands of stonework, plus six gargoyles. The church has a ring of 6 bells, some recast for the millennium. These are rung regularly by a local band of ringers as well as those who come to visit. 

The altar is reputed to be the highest in the land being nearly 1000ft above sea level. 

Bonsall is a vibrant, supportive village where the church is a visible central hub. It is exceptionally important to the community; the parishioners; all who attend the adjacent Church of England Voluntary Aided School; those from nearby local parishes and the visitors who come to the village. 

  • Enchanting atmosphere

  • Fascinating churchyard

  • Magnificent memorials

  • Spectacular stained glass

  • Wildlife haven

  • Café in church

  • Dog friendly

  • Non-accessible toilets in church

  • On street parking at church

  • Steps to enter the church or churchyard

  • Walkers & cyclists welcome

  • Wifi

  • Jimmy’s Cafe - Church Cafe every Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Selection of cobs, soups and homemade cakes and hot snacks.

  • Church of England

Contact information

Other nearby churches

Christ Church

Holloway, Derbyshire

Do visit this Derbyshire church, built in 1903, and enjoy the feel, integrity and scale of the building.

St Mary

Wirksworth, Derbyshire

St Mary's is most famous for carvings from a church or churches that stood on this site going back to Saxon times, found throughout the church, mounted into the fabric of the walls.

All Saints

Ashover, Derbyshire

All Saints was built between 1350 and 1419 by Thomas Babington (one of whose family members was later executed for plotting against Elizabeth I), although there has been a church in the village since at least 1086.