St Nicolas Church, Kings Norton
81 The Green, Kings Norton, Birmingham, West Midlands, B38 8RU
St Nicolas’ Church is one of the oldest and most significant parish churches in Birmingham, and is a Grade I listed building. The first documented church on the site was in 1231, but there’s evidence of a Norman church built around 1150. The first church occupied the site of the current chancel. It was then extended, with the central nave being added in the early 13th century and the tower and spire being added in the 15th century. The 60 meter high spire could once be seen from the centre of Birmingham.
The church houses a fascinating range of elements from across the centuries, from two Norman windows to a recently unveiled memorial plaque to the Rev Wilbert Awdry, author of the Thomas the Tank Engine stories. There are two large striking alabaster tombs inside the West Door.
While there are guides available, there is also a self-conducted audio tour taking visitors from the lych gate through a comprehensive tour of each area of the church.
The opening of the church on Saturday 14 September coincides with the Kings Norton Farmers’ Market, which runs from 0900 to approximately 1400.
Dogs can be brought into the church under appropriate supervision.
81 The Green, Kings Norton, Birmingham, West Midlands, B38 8RU