Church of St James

Church of St James is a protected Grade II building in Bilbrough with sandstone walls and magnesium limestone elements topped by a Welsh slate roof. The structure combines Gothic features with architectural elements from different periods, showing a blend of older remains and contemporary details.

The building stands on a site where a church existed in the 12th century, but it was entirely redesigned in 1873 by architect George Fowler Jones. Only the southeastern chapel from the earlier period was kept and integrated into the new design.

The church displays devotion to local figures through an elaborate tomb of marble and limestone. Visitors can see how the community honored its notable members across generations.

The church is located conveniently between York and Tadcaster and is easily accessible for visitors who wish to see the architecture. Regular services take place, and those interested in visiting should check opening times in advance.

During renovations in 1970, a medieval altar stone was discovered and built into the new altar. This way, religious practice from hundreds of years ago merges with the present in a single object.