CHURCH OF ST WALBURGE

Church of St. Walburge is the largest and most active Roman Catholic church that is renowned for its spectacular architectural grandeur obtained from the combination of traditional features in inventive and creative ways. It is one of the striking places to see in Preston with a New Red Sandstone facade, wooden triptych, rose window, open wooden roof, and a crucifix embellished with Preston’s shield and Loyola’s representation.

The Church of St. Walburge is one of the finest and largest non-cathedral Roman Catholic churches in Preston that is exceptionally rich in detail and possesses a very fine architectural style. Listed as a Grade I building by the English Heritage, the church features a colossal hammer beam roof with 24 carved wood, finely carved altars, and polychrome life-sized statues of numerous saints.

Visitors are attracted to the church to witness the third tallest spire in the United Kingdom, which stands at a height of 314 feet. You can climb the 173 spiral stairs of the spire to catch a glimpse of the spectacular panoramic views over Preston city and westwards to the Irish Sea coast and Blackpool. The views from the spire look even more dramatic during the winter events when the entire area below gets lit with thousands of lights. The lofty Swing Bell in Lancashire also draws the attention of the tourists as it is still rung thrice to give signals to start the services of the church.

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Highlights

• Take a tour of the Church of St. Walburge and understand its compelling history that dates back to the 13th century.
• Admire the grand architectural beauty of the church that is listed as Grade I by the English heritage.
• Feast your eyes on the painted statues, ornate stained glass windows, and a stunning altar.
• Climb the third tallest spire in the United Kingdom in the Church of St. Walburge on evening tours and special days.
• Appreciate the panoramic views of Preston from the spire of the Church of St. Walburge.
• Gaze at the magnificent memorials of 150 members of the parish who lost their lives in the Great War.