St Thomas' Church, Stockport

St Thomas' Church is a rectangular church building in Stockport with a prominent portico supported by six Ionic columns and a clock tower topped with an open cupola at the west end. The interior is structured by galleries on three sides supported by columns that rise to the ceiling with decorative details.

Construction began in 1822 and was partially funded through a grant from the Church Building Commission, showing that the project was part of a broader church building movement across England. This period marked an important moment for expanding religious infrastructure in industrial towns like Stockport.

The interior galleries are supported by square columns that transform into fluted Corinthian columns rising to the ceiling, decorated with late 19th-century stained glass windows depicting religious scenes. These windows cast colored light throughout the space when the sun shines through them.

The building remains active for worship services with a robed choir, and has received new washroom facilities and improved accessibility for disabled visitors in recent years. Visitors should note that getting around the building is now easier thanks to these upgrades.

The marble reredos behind the high altar features a depiction of the Annunciation and includes a copy of Raphael's Transfiguration of Jesus painting. This ornate altar work blends religious iconography with Renaissance masterpieces, making it a striking artistic focal point inside the church.

Location: Stockport

Inception: 1822

Architects: George Basevi

Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture

Website: http://stthomasstockport.org.uk

GPS coordinates: 53.40360,-2.15500

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:02