St Andrew the Great

St Andrew the Great is a medieval church building in central Cambridge featuring Neo-Gothic architecture with a prominent spire, expansive windows, and intricate stone carvings on its exterior and interior. The building underwent major reconstruction in the 1840s under architect Ambrose Poynter, transforming its design to reflect contemporary architectural tastes.

The building was originally founded around 1200 and has stood in Cambridge for over 8 centuries. Its 19th-century reconstruction transformed it into the Gothic structure that shapes the townscape today.

The church holds memorial tablets honoring Captain James Cook and his family members, with his wife Elizabeth buried on the grounds. This connection to the famous explorer gives the building an additional layer of historical interest beyond its religious function.

The church sits centrally in Cambridge and welcomes visitors during regular opening hours alongside scheduled services. It is worth checking current hours before visiting, as they shift seasonally and with the academic calendar.

The heating chamber underneath the building preserves double capitals dating to the 12th century, making them among the oldest structural features still visible. These overlooked details reveal layers of medieval craftsmanship preserved within the modern church.

Location: Cambridge

Website: http://stag.org

GPS coordinates: 52.20500,0.12170

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:01