Our history

This Grade II* listed building replaced the previous 15^th  century church which had fallen into disrepair. Designed by the Lancaster architect, E J Paley of Paley & Austin, it is built of Longridge stone and of beautiful proportions, 47.5m (156 feet) in length from east to west, 20.5m (67 feet) wide from north to south and 25m (82 feet) high. The church was consecrated and reopened by Bishop James Fraser, the Bishop of Manchester, on St Peter’s Day, 29^th  June 1871. The cost, £47,000, was met by Peter Ormrod (1795-1875), a wealthy cotton manufacturer and banker and the  chapel at the east end of the church is dedicated to his memory. 

The tower is the highest parish church tower in Lancashire, 55m (180 feet) high and it commands extensive views over the surrounding moorlands, from which the old title of Bolton-le-Moors originates. It contains a peal of 13 bells,  installed in 1974, and is also home to the original 1699 tenor bell, which is hung “dead” and rung electronically when the ringers are unavailable.

There is much to see inside the church, including a renovated ‘Hill’ organ case, a Saxon cross and coffin, some fine stained glass windows, including one from the previous building, the painted chancel roof and reredos and carved pews from the old church. 

A short guide to Bolton Parish Church is found here and a plan of the church here

The church is open for private prayer and for visitors on the following days and times:

Tuesday   :   11.45 am to 1.15 pm  (Communion Service at 12.15 pm)
Thursday :     11.45 am to 1.15 pm (Communion Service at 12.15 pm)

Sunday:         Before or after (but not during) our service at 11.00 a.m. 

Group visits and guided tours can also be arranged on request - please contact the Parish Office in the first instance.