Loughton Baptist Church
Loughton, Essex
Upon first impression, one could easily read the development of the church to be a Commissioner’s church with an Edwardian chancel extension. The unaisled nave (1844) is typical of the ‘Commissioner’s gothic style’ for which the architect Lewis Vulliamy was known.
The later 1903 chancel, designed by Sir Arthur Blomfield, represents the level of stylistic literacy widely seen in his buildings, and is a staid Perpendicular that contrasts with the nave. The chancel was further extended by the completion of the Elizabeth Chapel, now known as the Lady Chapel.
The church is composed of stock brick with flushwork flint panels and Bathstone dressings, although many of these were replaced with artificial stone in the 1950s.
Internally, a number of historic fixtures were brought the mile from the ‘old church’ when the ‘new church’ was opened in 1844. These comprise the Norman font, a 17th century iron bound chest, and the 18th century pulpit.
The church contains a number of wall monuments. Arguably, the most significant of these are the pair of Heathcote monuments dedicated to Revd Robert Boothby Heathcote (who built the church), his wives and children. Two further monuments commemorate Sir Godfrey John Thomas Bt and his son Edmond Herbert Thomas, and Lt Francis Wycliff Russell, youngest son of the then Rector, Alfred Francis Russell and Frances Wycliffe Russell, also commemorated. A fifth monument is the dedication panel located on the north side of the nave, recording that the church was built in 1844 at the effort and expense of Revd Robert Boothby Heathcote, and extended in 1903, dedicating what is now the Lady Chapel to the memory of his wife Elizabeth and his son Robert.
The church has four stained glass windows from the studio of Christopher Webb, one of which, reflecting the proximity of Epping Forest, depicts St Hubert. The east window by Clayton & Bell depicts Christ in Majesty. The organ was built by Hill, Norman & Beard in 1907.
The church is Grade II* Listed and is, therefore, of ‘more than special interest’ nationally. The church maintains a fine liturgical and musical tradition.