St Thomas' Church, Halliwell

St Thomas' Church is a Gothic Revival building constructed from red brick with an eight-bay nave, clerestory windows, and stepped lancet windows that define its character. Rose windows are integrated into the walls, and the interior can accommodate around 849 worshippers.

The church was completed in 1875 by the architectural firm Sharpe, Paley and Austin, with funding from the Cross family, local mill owners. This connection to local industry shows how deeply the building was rooted in its community.

Religious symbols like angels and fleur-de-lis patterns decorate the interior walls, while stone pulpits and a wooden reredos add to the sacred setting. These details reflect how the space was designed to inspire those who worship here.

The church is located on Eskrick Street and can be easily viewed from the outside to appreciate the architectural details from different angles. Regular Anglican services take place here, so visiting during service times allows for a proper look at the interior.

Although the church holds protected status for its exceptional architectural qualities, the northwest tower remains deliberately unfinished. This incomplete element gives the building an unusual story that visitors often overlook.

Location: Halliwell

Inception: 1875

Architects: Sharpe, Paley and Austin

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Website: http://achurchnearyou.com/bolton-st-thomas-the-apostle

GPS coordinates: 53.59260,-2.44270

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:40