Tour - Introduction

The present building, designed by local architect George Webster, was opened in 1841. Originally, there were twin octagonal towers 100ft high topped with spires but, due to problems with the foundations, these have been shortened twice in the life of the Church leaving the current structure you see today. The new porch was an addition in 2000 providing new entrance and toilet facilities.

Due to its position close to the River Kent and as the river was prone to flooding, the church ground was raised by four feet and walled round. There were railings along the tops of the walls and wrought iron gates at each entrance but these were removed, like so many others, during World War II to provide metal for the 'War Effort'. Soon after the Church was finished, associated schools were built in the locality but these are now used for other purposes, including a community centre. In addition, there was a cemetery, now closed, in Castle Street.

As originally designed, the east end of the Church terminated at what are now the Chancel steps and the main doors at the west end led straight into the Nave. Additionally, there was a large gallery at the west end reached by winding stairs in both towers, this gallery extending down both sides of the Church. This allowed the Church to seat 1,066 all of whom, it is said, had a clear view of the preacher as the pulpit was placed just to the right of centre of the east wall.

In 1911 the Chancel, Vestries, Organ Loft and Transepts were added and the Organ moved from the south gallery to its present position. Then in 1963, the length of the Nave was reduced to create a porch, side chapel and committee room at the west end. Above, the side galleries were removed and the gallery at the west end converted into a large upper hall approached by the original tower stairs. Also at this time, the font was moved from its traditional position by the west door to a new site at the southeast corner of the Nave.

So, let us take a walk around the Church