St George's Church, Heaviley

St George's Church, located in the bustling area of Heaviley in Stockport, Greater Manchester, stands as a magnificent testament to Victorian ecclesiastical architecture. This Grade I listed building is not only a place of worship but also a beacon of historical and architectural grandeur that draws visitors from near and far.

The History of St George's Church

The story of St George's Church begins in the late 19th century when its foundation stone was laid in 1893. Designed by the renowned architect Hubert Austin of the Lancaster firm Paley, Austin and Paley, the church was consecrated on 25 February 1897. Its construction was generously funded by George Fearn, a local brewer, who envisioned a grand church to serve the community. The total cost of the church and its associated buildings was nearly £80,000, a significant sum at the time, equivalent to over £11 million today.

St George's Church is celebrated as the finest church built in England since the Reformation, according to the Rt Revd Geoffrey Fisher, a former archbishop of Canterbury. Its architectural significance and historical value have earned it a prestigious place on the National Heritage List for England.

Exploring the Architecture

The church is a stunning example of Perpendicular Gothic architecture, with subtle hints of Art Nouveau. Constructed from Runcorn red sandstone, its exterior is a marvel to behold. The church's layout includes a six-bay nave with a clerestory, north and south aisles, and a tower at the crossing. The tower, with its embattled parapet and flying buttresses, soars to a height of 236 feet, crowned by a graceful spire.

Visitors will be captivated by the intricate details of the east and west windows, each boasting seven lights, while the nave's side windows feature four lights. The tower's height and the church's length of 180 feet make it a prominent landmark in the Stockport skyline.

The Rich Interior

Inside, the church is no less impressive. The reredos, crafted from Derbyshire alabaster, features three exquisitely carved panels depicting the Crucifixion, the Virgin Mary, and Saint John. The font, also of alabaster, is adorned with delicate foliage carvings, both works of art by Robert Bridgeman of Lichfield.

The pulpit is a masterpiece in itself, showcasing six niches with figures of prominent saints, including Saint Paul and Saint Peter. The brass eagle lectern, supported by lions, adds to the church's majestic atmosphere. The Lady Chapel, separated by a carved oak screen, houses a reredos with figures of Saint John the Divine and Saint John the Baptist.

The stained glass, primarily found in the east and west windows, is the work of Shrigley and Hunt, with the east window featuring a striking depiction of Saint George and the Dragon. The church's three-manual organ, built in 1897 by Forster and Andrews, has undergone several restorations and remains a key feature of the church's musical heritage.

External Features and Memorials

The churchyard is home to a poignant First World War memorial, a sandstone structure dating from around 1920. It includes panels inscribed with the names of 137 men, a tall cross, and a statue of Saint George under a gabled canopy. This memorial is also listed at Grade II, as are the churchyard wall and gate piers.

The former vicarage, built around 1920 in the Arts and Crafts style, adds to the historical ambiance of the site, although it has been described as ruinous in recent years.

St George's Church is more than just a place of worship; it is a cultural and historical treasure trove. Its architectural beauty, rich history, and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Stockport area. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a moment of reflection, St George's Church offers a unique glimpse into the past and a peaceful retreat in the present.