The soaring spire of this centuries-old church dominates the skyline of what was once the centre of Warrington’s medieval settlement.
The thick stone walls of Warrington Parish Church have witnessed over a thousand years of ecclesiastical history in Warrington. Admire the Gothic and Gothic-Revival design of this architectural landmark. Experience a warm atmosphere at services and sermons. Warrington Parish Church is called St. Elphin’s Church, which is a dedication to a Christian saint that roamed northwest England in the 7th century.
First mentioned in the 1086 Domesday Book, popular belief is that a church has existed here since around A.D. 650. Renovations and remodeling took place from the 1100s onwards. In the 13th century it played an important role in the city’s medieval life and stood adjacent to the castle of the noble Boteler family. Royalist fighters sought refuge here from the Parliamentarians during the English Civil War.
A striking feature of this landmark is its 281-feet (86 meter) tall spire, which is visible from the city center. Look for scorch marks on the east wall. These are the result of cannonball shots when Oliver Cromwell’s Parliamentarian troops took Warrington from the Royalists. Another notable aspect is the use of old gravestones as pavement slabs outside the main entrance and around the church building.
Inside, rows of tall pillars crowned by decorative capitals and sweeping arches frame the nave. See the tomb of Sir John Boteler and an effigy of Lord Winmarleigh, who was a descendant of the esteemed Scottish architect James Gibbs. Note the memorials of the noble Boteler, Massey and Patten families in the church chapels. Pay attention to the early-English style of the chancel and the intricate stained-glass windows.
Warrington Parish Church is an active place of worship so be quiet and respectful when entering. A timetable of weekly services is available on the church’s official website. It is about a 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk east of the town center. While here, you might want to also visit St. Elphin’s Park and Victoria Park.
