St James Church Southam - Open for viewing and refreshments
St James Church, Park Lane, Southam, Warwickshire, CV47 0JA
Come and view the 14th century listed St James Church and churchyard. As you enter from Park Lane see the Lych gate constructed in 1938 and the avenue of red twigged lime trees noting the memorial plaque on the church wall . Constructed from Lias limestone and red sandstone it consists of a nave, chancel, aisles and North and South porches, with a West tower with spire housing eight bells. The West wall has Medieval paintings in Latin.
The nave is as high as it is long at 53 feet providing excellent acoustics. In 1645 Parliamentarian troops were billeted in the town during the Civil War and parts of the church were removed and hidden for safekeeping to the home of Earl Spencer at Wormleighton. It wasn't until 1841 that they were returned and reinstalled.
Currently we are celebrating our 12 beautiful stained glass windows, in particular, the ‘Acts of Mercy’ window in the South East aisle. This was made by William Holland, a 19th century master maker of stained glass who established his firm in Warwick in 1828. In 1851 he was invited by Prince Albert to exhibit at The Great Exhibition. Thereafter, Holland added 'Glass Stainer by appointment to the Queen' to his business letterhead. Last month a blue plaque was unveiled on William’s home in Warwick.
Outside we have the War memorial, Commonwealth War Graves and the grave of Trooper Seth Bond of the 11th Hussars who took part in the famous Charge of the Light Brigade. Leaflets on the history will be available on the day.
St James Church, Park Lane, Southam, Warwickshire, CV47 0JA
The path to the church is cobbled, a ramp is installed to access the building. We do have a toilet however it is not wheelchair accessible. The nearest facilities are in Tithe Lodge opposite the church 2 minutes away.
Entrance is free. However we are asking for donations for refreshments should you use these facilities.