St Cross Church, Clayton
Parish Church of St Cross, 611 Ashton New Road, Clayton, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M11 4UA
Butterfield church (1866). Stewards available for guided tours. The eminent Gothic Revival architect William Butterfield (1814-1900) created a grand and lofty church in the Early Decorated style. Red brick walls are decorated with bands of blue brick and light stone, embellished with a diaper pattern of blue brick. The interior is both striking and dignified. The nave is wide and spacious. The aisles are separated from the nave by graceful arcades of four bays with alternating circular and quatrefoil piers. The chancel arch is remarkably wide and handsomely moulded. The chancel is lofty and flooded with light. A Crown of Thorns (1999) is suspended above the chancel altar. The sanctuary provides the climax of Butterfield’s decoration with a figured marble reredos comprising three arches with trefoil tracey and a central marble Cross with foliage decoration, and a richly-carved cornice with emblems of the Four Evangelists in gold.
Cafe open on Saturday from 9:30 serving full breakfasts - amazing value - until 12:30 (vegetarian and vegan options), drinks and refreshments throughout the day.
Parish Church of St Cross, 611 Ashton New Road, Clayton, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M11 4UA
Easy to find. Opposite Clayton Hall tram stop. On-street parking with 90 minute maximum stay. Next door to Clayton Hall - why not visit both?