St. Walburge's Church - Preston

St. Walburge’s Church: A Detailed Overview

St. Walburge’s Church, located at Pedder St, Ashton-on-Ribble, Preston PR2 2QE, United Kingdom, stands as a significant landmark and a vibrant center of the Catholic community. It’s more than just a place of worship; it’s a historical site, a tourist attraction, and a testament to enduring faith. The church’s prominent position within Preston and its unique architectural features draw visitors and locals alike, making it a noteworthy destination. icksp.org.uk serves as the official website, offering comprehensive information about the church’s history, events, and ongoing restoration efforts.

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History and Significance

The origins of St. Walburge’s Church trace back to the 13th century, though the current structure largely dates from the 18th and 19th centuries. It’s named after Saint Walburga, a 8th-century Abbess of Heidenheim, venerated as the patron saint of childbirth. The church’s history is intertwined with the development of Ashton-on-Ribble and Preston, reflecting the growth of the Catholic faith in the region. Over the years, it has undergone several renovations and expansions, showcasing a blend of architectural styles. Notably, the church has played a crucial role in supporting the local Catholic community, providing a spiritual home and a focal point for charitable activities. The ongoing fundraising efforts, particularly related to the church’s renovation, demonstrate a strong commitment to preserving its legacy for future generations.

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Architectural Features and the Tower

One of the most distinctive features of St. Walburge’s Church is its impressive tower. Ascending the tower involves a spiral staircase with 172 steps, a challenge that offers a rewarding panoramic view of Preston. This climb is a popular activity, and visitors consistently comment on the steepness of the ascent, but also on the amazing views it provides. The church itself is a beautiful example of Gothic Revival architecture, characterized by its soaring arches, intricate stonework, and stained-glass windows. Inside, the church features a richly decorated sanctuary, impressive altars, and a peaceful atmosphere conducive to prayer and reflection. The design incorporates elements that enhance the visual and spiritual experience for those who visit. The ongoing restoration project aims to preserve and enhance these architectural elements, ensuring their continued appreciation for centuries to come.

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Accessibility and Amenities

St. Walburge’s Church is committed to inclusivity and accessibility. The entrance is wheelchair accessible, and there is a wheelchair accessible parking lot available for visitors with mobility challenges. These provisions reflect a dedication to welcoming all members of the community, regardless of their physical abilities. The church also offers a range of services and events, including regular Mass, religious education programs, and community gatherings. The staff are known for being very friendly and welcoming, contributing to a positive and inviting atmosphere for all who enter. It’s recommended to book in advance, particularly during peak seasons, to secure a place on the tower tour and ensure a smooth visit. The money raised from the tour directly supports the church’s renovation, highlighting the community’s collective investment in its preservation.

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Visitor Information and Reviews

Visitors to St. Walburge’s Church consistently express positive feedback. Google My Business currently features 179 reviews, with an average opinion of 4.6/5. This high rating reflects the positive experiences of countless individuals who have visited the church. The tour to the top of the tower is frequently praised for its stunning views and the friendly assistance provided by the staff. Many visitors highlight the sense of community and the welcoming atmosphere within the church. The church’s dedication to preserving its historic and architectural integrity is also highly appreciated. It’s a place where people feel a connection to something larger than themselves, a place of beauty, history, and faith.

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Additional Points of Interest

Beyond the tower and the church itself, the surrounding area offers several points of interest. Ashton-on-Ribble is a charming village with a rich history, and Preston provides a vibrant urban experience. The church’s location within this area allows visitors to easily explore the local surroundings. The church’s dedication to community engagement extends beyond its walls, contributing to the social and cultural life of Preston. The ongoing renovation project serves as a visible symbol of the church’s commitment to the future and its role in the community.

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👍 Reviews of St. Walburge's Church

Daydreamer

5/5

Went up the spiral 172 steps, was steep but worth it. Views are amazing. The staff were very friendly & welcoming. They send you up in groups of 3, so don’t worry about slowing others down, we’re all in the same boat catching a breath to reach the top. Worth booking in advance. The money raised from the tour goes towards the renovation.

Shaun

5/5

A beautiful church that is definitely worth visiting and spending time to take in the grandeur of the architecture. I was also fortunate to climb the 172 steps of the spiral staircase and see the amazing views of Preston. Well worth the small price to pay and would definitely recommend anyone to do this.

James V.

5/5

Beautiful church, very welcoming and fascinating to read about and the history of the church. Really one of the most beautiful places to go and see in Preston. The rose window is absolutely beautiful and quite a pleasant walk from the city centre. The people welcoming at the door were happy to welcome me. The spire was open to book to see the top but I didn’t have time - maybe in the future. Tickets in advance on eventbrite to go up the spire.

Laurentius J. V.

5/5

Excellent historical church with magnificent Catholic liturgies; a great testimony to the Christendom heritage.

Chloe G.

4/5

Lovely building with lots of history. Fab staff guided us up the spire and ensured any questions we had were answered. Bit scary at first as the staircase is very steep but worth it for the views. They only open the spire a few times a year but well worth a visit anyway as the church itself is stunning. Needs repair inside but they're trying their best 🙂

Nichola R.

5/5

Lovely mass taking place when I went In to light a candle for my mum's birthday on the 11th. The church inside is beautiful and it's nice to sit in peace and quiet and take some time out.

Gary T.

5/5

Climbed the spire stairs. £10 a ticket and the view is worth every penny. Beware the staircase is narrow and steep as you can rxpect from a 19th century church. Staff were great really friendly and even got given a tour around the church with a history lesson to boot. All the ticket pricing goes towards the church restoration thats needed.
Will deffo do it agaon

Marie R.

4/5

My family has many connections with this church, but it is not easy to ignore this huge building high above Preston. A staggeringly beautiful interior which is well worth a look if you are in the area.