St John the Evangelist's Church, Crawshawbooth

St John the Evangelist's Church in Crawshawbooth is a Gothic Revival church made of sandstone with pointed arches and detailed stonework throughout. The nave is lit by a clerestory featuring intricate tracery patterns, while square-headed two-light windows punctuate the walls.

The church was designed in 1892 by the architectural firm Sharpe, Paley and Austin and received Grade II* listed status. It functioned as an active Anglican place of worship for over a century before structural deterioration forced its closure.

The interior walls display red Rainhill sandstone, and carved wooden screens divide the nave from the choir area. Statues of the four Evangelists adorn the altar wall and shape how the space feels when you step inside.

The building can be viewed from the outside and clearly displays its Gothic Revival features. Visit during daylight hours to see the stonework and window details at their best.

The building appears on the Heritage at Risk Register and is being carefully monitored due to structural concerns. A local community group continues working to find alternative uses for the church and secure its future.

Location: Rossendale

Inception: 1892

Architects: Sharpe, Paley and Austin

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Website: http://achurchnearyou.com/crawshawbooth-st-john

GPS coordinates: 53.72260,-2.28920

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:04