St Cross Church, Middleton

St Cross Church is an Anglican church in Middleton, Leeds, with five bays and narrow rounded windows running along the nave, complemented by a clerestory with closely spaced arched windows. The space was partially modified in 1982, when the last two bays were converted into a parish room and kitchen for community use.

The parish emerged in the 1920s following housing development in Middleton, with a temporary wooden structure built in 1925. The foundation stone for a permanent stone building was laid in 1933, marking the transition from provisional to permanent church architecture.

The interior displays handcrafted furniture by Robert Thompson of Kilburn, whose distinctive work includes the altar and lectern that define the space. This craftsmanship reflects a connection between traditional woodwork and the modern church environment.

Access is straightforward since the church sits in an established residential area and is easily reached on foot. The converted rear areas are used for community gatherings and can be viewed during a regular visit.

During the 1933 foundation stone ceremony, a complete set of coins was buried within the stone but was found missing in 1970. This lost time capsule remains one of the building's most intriguing mysteries.

Location: Leeds

Inception: 1933

Website: http://parishofmiddleton.co.uk

GPS coordinates: 53.74350,-1.54700

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:12