St Walburge's Church
Weston Street, off Pedder Street, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 2QE
The church was designed by Joseph Hansom – the man responsible for the Hansom cab - and is an architectural wonder. The hammerbeam roof spans a vast open space, and was sufficiently innovative that Hansom tested his design by first trialling it in the adjacent church hall.
Joseph Hansom was based in Preston for five years from 1847 while working on St Walburge's, and was associated with the Pugin family of architects with whom he shared his Catholic faith. Hansom also founded the professional magazine, 'The Builder', still going strong today as 'Building'.
Inside, the huge rose window glows with its original Victorian glass, which also decorates the windows round the church - made by three renowned stained-glass companies, Mayer, Hardman and Maycock. There are finely carved altars, twenty-four colourful lifesize statues of saints stand high on the roof beams, and polychrome statues of saints. The impressive and unusual war memorial altar is from Belgium.
The soaring spire is a Preston landmark, and the climb up to it is well worth the effort for the stunning views across the city and beyond.
Tour guides are available to take small groups round the church to point out its key features and reveal the stories of St Walburge, a female 8th-century English saint, and the recycling of handy stone supplies to build the church tower. There will also be a display of 19th century embroidered banners and guided tour sheets for children available.
Timings & Tours
- Saturday 13 September:
- 1030-1200
- Sunday 14 September:
- 1330-1500
Location & directions
Weston Street, off Pedder Street, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 2QE
- Directions:
- Head for the spire! The church is a 20 minute walk from the centre of Preston. Bus 44 from Preston Bus Station and the Railway Station stops on Ashton Street, near the end of Pedder Street. There are also frequent buses from the city centre along Fylde Road, a short walk away.
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
Spire accessed by narrow spiral staircase. Unfortunately no accessible toilet is available this year
Additional information
Access to the spire is by a steep, stone spiral staircase. The walkway at the top is open to the elements. The spire is usually home to a pair of peregrine falcons, and although it is cleaned after the nesting season, you are recommended to wash or sanitise your hands after visiting, or wear gloves. You may need to queue to climb the spire as numbers are limited. Please dress appropriately for this place of worship.
