Carlisle Road Presbyterian
Derry-Londonderry, County Derry
Carlisle Road Presbyterian Church was built in the perpendicular style, and commands attention as it fronts onto the street.
Facing west onto Carlisle Road it commands attention with its striking three stage tower and spire.
Founded in the mid18th century, Methodism in Derry, Londonderry flourished with the industrialisation of the city and as the congregation grew the Carlisle Road Church replaced a smaller chapel on the East City Wall.
Within the church opens up into a theatrical type gallery, a three-sided beautifully timber panelled ceiling, and an impressive pulpit and organ. A highlight is a cantilevered gallery constructed of richly coloured wood. The church is adorned with tripartite tracery windows embellished with Art Nouveau style leaded coloured glazing and showcases two stained glass windows, 'Suffer the Little Children' and 'A Drink from the Well of Bethlehem,' crafted by the renowned Clokey Stained Glass Studios around 1945.
As the population of Derry moved out of the town due to the challenges during the Troubles the congregation dwindled but today, the congregation has experienced a revitalisation and actively engages in community work.
Serving as a symbolic link between Carlisle Road Methodist, St Columba’s Long Tower, First Derry Presbyterian and St Augustine’s Church bronze doves were gifted to each church, embodying the spirit of both peace and the enduring legacy of St Columba-Colmcille.