Derbyshire Churches and Chapels
Allenton St Edmund, Sinfin Avenue SK371319
A most attractive stone Gothic church built in 1939. Across the road is the 1949 Derby War Memorial Village - 30 houses in a pleasant, open setting with special features for the needs of its disabled occupants. The church itself is light and airy with excellent musical acoustics. In the Lady Chapel is a crucifix by Ronald Pope and a wood carving of Our Lady.
SUNDAY SERVICES: 8.00, 10.00, 6.00
CONTACT: Tel: (01332) 701194 (Vicar)
Allestree Methodist, Duffield Road SK351399
A plain, red brick chapel in Gothic style, built in 1894. A prized possession is the early 19th century chamber organ which is understood to have come from a chapel in Duffield.
SUNDAY SERVICE: 10.45
CHURCH OPEN (COFFEE): SAT 10.00-12.00 (EASTER TO SEPTEMBER)
(street)
Allestree St John's Methodist, Birchover Way SK341387
A 1950's building adjacent to Park Farm, the main shopping precinct of a large, post-war housing estate.
SUNDAY SERVICES: 10.30, 6.30
PREMISES OPEN (LUNCHEON CLUB): WED & THUR
(above times)
Allestree St Nicholas, Allestree Lane SK341397
Built in 1958 of brick with stone dressings and in the simplified Gothic style favoured in the immediate after-war years. Like others of its genre it needs to be entered to be apprciated. The interior is spacious and well-proportioned, the bare surfaces and vaults providing the sort of acoustics that are so encouraging for the music of worship (a quality that is understood and made good use of here).
SUNDAY SERVICES: 10.00, 6.30
CONTACT: Tel: (01332) 550224 (Vicar)
Alvaston St Michael & All Angels, Church Street SK393333
The church was entire rebuilt by H I Stevens of Derby in 1855-56, the only trace of anything older being, seemingly, a Saxon coffin lid and some C18 ironwork by Robert Bakewell from a former reredos (containing a figure of St Michael).
SUNDAY SERVICES: 8.30, 10.30
CONTACT: Tel: (01332) 571143 (Vicar)
Boulton St Mary The Virgin, Boulton Lane (Alvaston) SK385331
St Mary's is witness to a very interesting process of growth. Evidence of a small mediaeval building is to be seen in the two Norman doors, a C14 porch and some Perpendicular windows. Enlargements took place in 1840 and 1870. Finally, in c1960, Sebastian Comper supervised a further overall enlargement resulting in a church of quite major proportions. Comper's scheme provided a very elegant Classical stone organ balcony at the west end. However - no doubt on account of the great length of the church - the present organ has been brought two bays forward of this balcony and very daringly suspended over the nave seating area. The East window is a representation of the Passion by Walker J Pearce (1913).
SUNDAY SERVICES: 8.00, 10.15, 5.00 ( + 7.30 on 2nd & 4th)
CHURCH OPEN: DAILY, 9.30-10-30
CONTACT: Tel: (01332) 571296 (Incumbent)
(Barrett Street) 
Chaddesden St Mary, Church Lane (Grade A) SK382369
This must be one of the best, though one of the least known, parish churches within the present-day City boundary - as is betokened by its prestigious "A" listing. Much of the church dates from its rebuilding during the 1350's as a college or chantry foundation. As at Sandiacre, Norbury and elsewhere, its chief glory lies in the large chancel which is entered through a C15 carved rood screen with east-facing misericord seats on its inner side. Also within the chancel are a stone Gospel desk, sedilia and piscina, all of the C14. The fine triptych behind the high altar is by Walter Tapper (1904).
SUNDAY SERVICES: 8.00, 10.00, 6.30
CHURCH OPEN: SAT & SUN 2.00-4.00 (MAY TO SEPTEMBER)
Publication: Welcome to the Historic Parish Church of St Mary Chaddesden, Derby - an exemplary guide leaflet, interestingly presented
Chellaston St Peter, Chellaston High Street SK381304
The nave and south aisle date essentially from the C13 with the chancel from the following century. The tower was rebuilt in 1842 and much further rebuilding and restoration took place in the 1880's. The pipes of a modern organ are situated over the tower arch at the west end. The church is small for what is now a large suburb and there is talk of expanding the building.
SUNDAY SERVICES: 8.00, 10.00, 6.00
FLOWER FESTIVAL: LAST W/E JUNE
CONTACT: Tel: (01332) 704835 (Vicar)
Darley Abbey St Matthew, Church Lane SK351388
The village grew at first around the mediaeval Augustinian Abbey of St Mary. From the late C18 the site was to become an important industrial cotton community. The well-preserved village is now a conservation area. The prettily "Gothick" church was consecrated in 1819, its benefactor being Walter Evans, son of the creator of the mill and its associated community. The sanctuary would at that time have been no more than a recess projecting from the otherwise rectangular building; the present chancel is a later C19 addition in a more Victorian Gothic style. In the churchyard are several Evans family graves together with those of some victims of the sinking of the "Lusitania". There is also the grave of Alfred Ainger, the hymn writer.
SUNDAY SERVICES: 8.00, 10.00, 6.15
CONTACT: Tel: (01332) 553192 (Vicar)
T Derwent
"Mill Churches" Trail
Derby Cathedral Of All Saints, Irongate (Grade I)
SK352364
The visitor is presented with a wonderful progression: 16th century tower, 18th century nave, 20th century retro-choir. The west tower, 212 feet high and standing right on the street, must be one of the finest creations of late Perpendicular Gothic (1510-1530, by a mason who had worked at King's College, Cambridge). The nave was designed by James Gibbs and completed in 1725. Following elevation (in 1927) to cathedral status the apsed retro-choir extension, designed by Sebastian Comper, was opened in 1972. The tomb of Bess of Hardwick who died in 1607 is an important relic from the mediaeval church. The most striking item of furnishing from the 18th century period is the wrought-iron screen by local iron-smith, Robert Bakewell.
SUNDAY SERVICES: 8.00, 10.45, 6.00
CATHEDRAL OPEN: DAILY, 8.30-6.00
NEW VISITOR CENTRE DUE TO OPEN IN 2001
CATHEDRAL OFFICE: Tel: (01332) 341201
Publications: numerous, including guides in various languages
(public CP nearby)
Cathedral Web Site
Derby Central United Reformed, Becketwell Lane/Victoria St SK352362
The present church was built in 1977 over the top of Debenham's store. The site, however, is a historic one, having been in use for worship since the 17th century. It functions as a city centre community-based church offering a warm welcome to visitors; its rooms are in constant use by various community groups. A Memorial Chapel is available for quiet meditation.
SUNDAY SERVICES: 11.00 & 5.30
PREMISES ACCESSIBLE MOST DAYS: COFFEE FRI MORNINGS
CHURCH OFFICE: Mon 5.30-6.30, Tue & Fri 9.30-1200 Tel: (01332) 380601 (answerphone) or 346627
(Colyear St or Abbey St)
(Fri am)
Derby Queen's Hall Methodist Mission, London Road SK359355
The original 1861 London Road Wesleyan was restructured as a Central Hall in 1927. A suite of connecting rooms was built and the church's galleried interior was refurbished with tip-up seats and a rostrum suitable for concert purposes. In the 1960's the street front was modernized to include a foyer. A serious fire in 1991 destroyed much of the interior including the fine organ. Subsequent rebuilding, however, has resulted in a beautiful example of modern worship design within the framework of an older structure. The church now boasts two excellent organs - a large 2-manual by Hunter (1875) and an early 19th century chamber instrument (which survived the fire) by James Davis.
SUNDAY SERVICES: 10.45 & 6.30
CONTACT: RESIDENT WARDEN on premises or Tel: (01332) 348665
(London Rd or public CP)
Derby St Alkmund, Kedleston Road SK347372
A striking modern building, opened in 1972 on a new site to replace the former H I Stevens town centre church. The main side wall is of a zig-zag plan, with alternating solidpanels and full length stained glass windows which give a wash of deep, rich colour to the interior. The glass fronted entrance, surmounted by a fibre-glass spire, contains the C14 font and various monuments from the Victorian and earlier churches.
SUNDAY SERVICES: 10.00, 7.00
PARISH OFFICE: Tel: (01332) 291236
Derby St Anne, Whitecross Street/Leaper Street SK345370
The austere red brick exterior - tall nave and chancel, lean-to aisles, no tower - belies an interior that has been described very aptly as "numinous". Consecrated in 1872 it is a building clearly conceived for the highest form of Anglo-Catholic worship - with processional aisles, a spacious sanctuary, a rood carried aloft on a high beam and a windowless east wall totally covered with frescos depicting scenes from the Gospels. Stations, statuary and flickering candles all cry out for plainsong and incense to complete the atmosphere (the former regretfully may not be much in evidence nowadays though the latter is still to be experienced, wafting its way up through the shafts of light from the high clerestory windows). The church also possesses a fine set of Continental vestments, many dating from C17 and C18.
SUNDAY SERVICES: 8.00, 11.15
CHURCH OPEN: 3RD SAT JULY & 1ST SAT SEPTEMBER
CONTACT: Tel: (01332) 332681 (Vicar)
Derby St Augustine, Upper Dale Road SK350345
A large, red brick church whose building commenced in 1897. It has a small flăµche but no tower. The chancel was the last part to be built, in 1910, with a suite of meeting rooms below. Because of this undercroft structure the chancel floor is exceptionally high (with "the highest altar in the Diocese"); the chancel itself contains good mosaic tiles and panelling.
SUNDAY SERVICES: 10.30, 6.30
ACCESS TO CHURCH: VIA OFFICE, TUE-FRI, 10.00-12.00
CONTACT: Tel: (01332) 270837 (Office, at above times) or (01332) 766603 (Rector)
Derby St John The Evangelist, Bridge Street SK346365
A "Commissioners' Church" dating from 1826-27, it is clearly inspired by King's College Chapel - a long, rectangular Gothic box without any tower but with four tall corner turrets. The interior, with galleries each side, is notable for its use of cast-iron in the window traceries and roof trusses. The apsidal chancel dates from 1872 and the fine "Father" Willis organ was installed in 1875.
SUNDAY SERVICES: 9.45, 6.30
CHURCH OPEN: SAT 10.00-12.00
FLOWER FESTIVAL: LAST W/E SEPTEMBER
CONTACT: Tel: (01332) 332681 (Vicar)
(Street)
Derby St Mark, Francis Street SK368368
A late example of an "Arts and Crafts" church, dating from 1938 and constructed of hand-made bricks and tiles; the unusual "Deco" interior makes use of pre-stressed concrete and has an effect of vaulted spaciousness.
SUNDAY SERVICE: 9.30
CONTACT: Tel: (01332) 340183 (Vicar)
(street)
Derby St Mary (RC), Bridge Gate (Grade I) SK351368
Built during 1838/39, it is the first important church designed by A W N Pugin and consists of a tall, narrow nave with high aisles and an apsed sanctuary, all in perpendicular Gothic style; the pinnacled tower, containing a large west window, was originally planned to have a slender spire. Later, in 1853, J A Hansom added the very large Lady Chapel in decorated Gothic style, with an altar by Paul Pugin. A major refurbishment of the interior of the whole church was carried out from 1986 to 1989: the effect is now refreshingly beautiful.
SUNDAY MASS: 9.00 11.00 & 6.30
CHURCH OPEN: DAILY
CHURCH OFFICE: Tel: (01332) 346126 (10.00-3.00)
Publication: W J Lilley, St. Mary's Church, Derby
(adjacent street)
(by arrangement)
Derby St Mary on the Bridge (Chapel of), St Mary's Bridge (Grade I) SK354367
One of only six surviving bridge chapels in England, this one dates largely from the C14. Below the east wall can be seen the springing of the first arch of the mediaeval bridge (now replaced by an 18th century structure alongside). With support from Lord Lloyd Webber's Open Churches Trust it is now open to the public on a regular basis.
SUNDAY SERVICES: 8.30 & 9.15
CHAPEL OPEN: TUES & SAT 1.00-3.00 MID-APR TO MID-SEPT & ON CATHEDRAL TOWER OPEN DAYS
CONTACT: Tel: (01332) 341201 (Cathedral office)
(street)
Derby St Osmund, London Road (Wilmorton) SK373343
A magnificently lofty, dark red brick Gothic church by P H Currey, built in 1904. Adjacent vicarage and other buildings of the same date, surrounding a garden with a border containing rare plants. There is a statue of St Osmond on a niche above the main church door. A line from the poem "Sunday" by George herbert is carved on stone blocks contained in the arch wall of the porch. All contribute to a very pleasing architectural ensemble. The interior contains an interesting Art Nouveau reredos and font. The church is easily accessed from the City Cycle Way (a National Cycle Route).
CHURCH OPEN: 10.00-11.00am
SUNDAY SERVICES: 10.00, 6.00 'The Chat Room' a cafe style discussion evening with light refreshments and music.
WEEKDAY SERVICES: Tues 7.00pm, Wed 10.30am, Sat 8.30am
CONTACT: Tel: (01332) 571329 (Vicar)
GARDEN PARTY: LAST SAT AUGUST
(at rear, access behind Vicarage)
Derby St Peter, St Peter Street SK353360
The only surviving mediaeval church in the City centre - a town church of the early C14. It has a long chancel whose big Perpendicular east window is particularly impressive. In 1898 the tower was dismantled and rebuilt further west to allow for a lengthening of the nave. Further extensions were constructed at the west end in 1972 to provide a 2-storey suite of parish rooms. Random features in the church interior include a mediaeval Flemish chest and the grave of Percy Willoughby, the first gynaecologist.
SUNDAY SERVICES: 10.45, 6.30
CHURCH OPEN: SAT 10.00-12.00
PARISH OPEN DAY: LAST SAT JUNE
CONTACT: Tel: (01332) 360790
(public CP)
Littleover Baptist, Thornhill Road SK332343
The present red brick chapel was built in 1888 for a congregation founded in 1813. The hall to the rear is a later addition. "Traditional worship" with pipe organ is maintained as an important element.
SUNDAY SERVICES: 10.30, 6.30
CONTACT: Tel: (01332) 516015 (Mrs Measures)
Littleover Methodist, Burton Road SK329344
A modern church dating from 1957 and replacing an earlier, smaller building. Of traditional shape, with large "west" window and dominating pulpit, the interior is characterized by the arrangement of roof beams to represent Praying Hands.
SUNDAY SERVICES: 10.30, 6.15
CONTACT: Tel: (01332) 342814 (Minister)
Littleover St Peter, Church Street SK333342
An example of a former village church, of Norman origin, that has grown during the C19 and C20 in parallel with the suburbanization of its surrounding community. Most notable has been the west end enlargement by Sebastian Comper, 1959-61. An important monument is that of Sir Richard Harpur and his wife, 1635.
SUNDAY SERVICES: 8.00, 10.00, 6.30
CHURCH OPEN: MON, WED, FRI 9.30-4.00; TUE, THUR 1.00-4.00
OPEN WEEKEND: PETERTIDE (NEAREST W/E TO 29 JUNE)
CONTACT: Tel: (01332) 767802 (Vicar)
(church hall, Normanton Lane)
Mackworth St Francis, Prince Charles Avenue SK321365
A plain, brick church of the 1950's - an effective enclosure of space and well suited to Anglo-Catholic ritual. The community centre is integral with the church building.
SUNDAY SERVICES: 8.00, 9.30, 6.30 (4.00 in winter)
CHURCH OPEN: DAILY, 8.00-6.00 (OR 4.00 IN WINTER)
CONTACT: Tel: (01332) 347690 (Vicar)
(Thur 10.00-1.00)
Mickleover All Saints, Etwall Road SK305343
Like Littleover this is another village that has grown out of all recognition and has now been absorbed into Derby suburbia. C14 origins are still clear in the tower and chancel; other remnants of this period include font, piscina, aumbry, stone lectern and various carvings. The main body of the church was rebuilt and enlarged by H I Stevens in the 1850's.
SUNDAY SERVICES: 9.15, 11.15, 6.30
CHURCH OPEN: SAT AFTERNOONS (JULY & AUGUST)
FLOWER FESTIVAL: AUGUST B/H W/E
CONTACT: Tel: (01332) 513793 (Vicar)
Mickleover Our Lady Of Lourdes (RC), Uttoxeter Road SK309344
Built in 1982 and situated amidst spacious grounds and gardens, it must be the most attractive modern church in the whole county. The building is octagonal in shape with fairly low walls and a high, tent-like roof. The general atmosphere of devotion is enhanced by the rich colours of Robert Hickling's stained glass window, The Last Supper.
SUNDAY MASS: 8.00, 10.00
CHURCH OPEN: DAILY
CHURCH OFFICE: Tel: (01332) 514107)
Mickleover St John, Darwin Road/Devonshire Drive SK313352
A modern church serving the residential area north-east of the old parish church of All Saints. A new post-war church to an unconventional design had to be demolished in the 1970's on account of a constructional fault. The present church, plainer and simpler, replaced it. It has a modern wrought-iron crucifix on the east wall.
SUNDAY SERVICES: 8.00, 9.30, 6.30 (winter 4pm)
CHURCH OPEN: 9.00 TILL DUSK
ADVENT FAIR: LAST SATURDAY NOVEMBER
CONTACT: Tel: (01332) 516545 (Vicar)
(after morning service)
Church Web Site
Normanton-by-Derby St Giles, Village Street SK346336
An old church, possibly of pre-Norman origin, was demolished in 1861 to make way for the new building designed by F J Robinson, a colleague of Derby's well-known H I Stevens; it was further enlarged in 1903. Items of interest within the church include a Norman tympanum from the old church together with numerous memorials, plaques and other relics of the Sherwood Foresters based at the former Normanton Barracks and whose regimental garrison church this was.
SUNDAY SERVICES: 8.00, 10.45, 6.30
CHURCH OFFICE: Tel: (01332) 776287 (2.30-4.30)
Publication: J Raven, A Walk Around St Giles' Church
(street)
Church Web Site
Sinfin St Stephen, Wordsworth Avenue/Sinfin Lane SK347321
A modest brick church of 1935, a late work by local "Arts & Crafts" architect, P H Currey. The altar, on a platform, is now in the middle of the long north side while a recess - obviously originally designed to be the sanctuary - houses a very attractive 1982 pipe organ by Roger Pulham (Suffolk).
SUNDAY SERVICES: 10.00, 6.30
ACCESS TO CHURCH : VIA PARISH CENTRE, MON-FRI 9.00-12.30
OPEN FOR REFRESHMENTS: TUE 10.00-12.00 (TERM-TIME)
CHURCH OFFICE: Tel: (01332) 773093 (mornings)