St Peter's Church in Ashton-under-Lyne stands as a testament to the rich ecclesiastical history and architectural grandeur of Greater Manchester. As an active Anglican parish church, it continues to serve the spiritual needs of its community while also drawing the admiration of visitors with its imposing and elaborate design. This Grade II* listed building, recognized by the National Heritage List for England, is a must-visit for anyone interested in historical architecture and the enduring legacy of the Church Building Commission.
St Peter's Church was constructed between 1821 and 1824, a period marked by significant architectural endeavors funded by the Church Building Commission. The commission granted £13,191 (equivalent to approximately £1,470,000 in 2023) to support the construction of this ambitious project. The land for the church was generously donated by George, the 6th Earl of Stamford and Warrington, whose cousin, Revd Sir George Booth, had served as Rector of Ashton for nearly four decades. Designed by the renowned architect Francis Goodwin, St Peter's was the first of three churches he created for the Commission in the Manchester area.
In 1840, a unique clock was installed in the church, featuring a face at the east end and its mechanism at the west end, connected by a drive shaft running the length of the building. This ingenious design is a testament to the innovative spirit of the time. The church has undergone various modifications over the years, including the division of the west end under the gallery during the latter part of the 20th century.
The exterior of St Peter's Church is a striking example of ashlar stone construction, topped with a slate roof. The seven-bay nave, complemented by a canted vestry at the east end, serves as the chancel. The west end is dominated by a three-stage tower, complete with buttresses at the corners that rise to piers surmounted by pinnacles. The west door is adorned with a three-stage window, while higher up, clock faces are nestled under gablets. The top stage features pairs of open pointed arches that serve as bell openings, and the parapet is open and traceried, adding to the church's Gothic charm.
Each bay of the nave houses a three-light transomed window, with tracery in Perpendicular style crafted from cast iron and painted to resemble stone. The buttresses between the bays rise to pinnacles, with the corner pinnacles being particularly ornate and crocketed. At the east end, a beautiful rose window is situated above a clock face in the gable, creating a harmonious blend of functionality and artistry.
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The interior of St Peter's Church is equally captivating, with galleries on three sides supported by quatrefoil cast iron columns. Originally, the church featured box pews, but these, along with many other furnishings, have since been removed to accommodate modern needs. The east rose window, dating from the 1830s, showcases the work of David Evans of Shrewsbury and depicts the twelve apostles in stunning stained glass.
On the north side of the church, visitors can admire a window by W. Pointer from 1923, as well as three windows by Curtis, Ward, and Hughes from the 1890s and 1901. The south side includes windows by Lavers and Westlake, further enriching the church's visual appeal. The three-manual organ, built in 1831 by Samuel Renn and rebuilt in 1959 by J. J. Binns, remains a focal point of the church's musical heritage.
St Peter's Church is home to a ring of eight bells, all cast in 1871 by Mears and Stainbank of the Whitechapel Bell Foundry. These bells have rung out over Ashton-under-Lyne for over a century, marking significant moments in the life of the parish and the wider community.
The churchyard of St Peter's Church holds historical significance as well, containing the war grave of a Royal Garrison Artillery soldier from World War I. This solemn memorial serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served in the armed forces and adds a layer of historical depth to the church's surroundings.
In conclusion, St Peter's Church in Ashton-under-Lyne is not just a place of worship; it is a beacon of historical and architectural splendor. Its towering presence, intricate design, and rich history make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Greater Manchester. Whether you are drawn by its spiritual significance, its architectural beauty, or its historical legacy, St Peter's Church promises a visit that will leave a lasting impression.
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