Gloucester, St Nicholas Church
History, tourist information, and nearby accommodation
HERITAGE HIGHLIGHTS: 1626 John Walton tomb
It probably sprung up at the same time as Westgate Bridge was ercted, around 1119, to serve the growing population of Gloucester. In 1229 the church was given to St Bartholomew's Hospital, and church and hospital maintained a close relationship throughout the medieval period. It was later granted to the City Corporation (essentially the city government) and until 1870 the Corporation of Gloucester had the living.
There are squints on both sides of the chancel arch, allowing the congregation to view the high altar from the sides of the nave. These had to be inserted in the 16th century when St Nicholas church became extremely popular and was crowded during services.
One unusual feature is that the church leans at a very noticeable angle. Perhaps the best place to appreciate the awkward angle at which the building finds itself is simple to stand at one end of the nave and look straight ahead.
There is one ancient treasure that you cannot find at St Nicholas; that is the 14th century sanctuary knocker that once adorned the south door. This large knocker was made of brass and depicted the head and part of the body of an odd serpent-like creature with the head of an old woman on its back. The sanctuary knocker is on display in the City Museum.
St Nicholas church is no longer in regular use and is cared for by the Churches Conservation Trust. It is usually open daylight hours.
About Gloucester, St Nicholas Church
Address: Westgate Street, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, England, GL1 2QT
Attraction Type: Historic Church
Location: At the lower end of Westgate Street, near the cathedral. Opposite the museum and 250 metres from the ring road.
Website: Gloucester, St Nicholas Church
Churches Conservation Trust
Photo Credit: David Ross and Britain Express
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NEARBY HISTORIC ATTRACTIONS
Heritage Rated from 1- 5 (low-exceptional) on historic interest
St Oswald's Priory, Gloucester - 0.1 miles (Abbey)
Gloucester Cathedral - 0.1 miles (Cathedral)
Blackfriars, Gloucester - 0.3 miles (Abbey)
Greyfriars, Gloucester - 0.3 miles (Abbey)
Gloucester Waterways Museum - 0.4 miles (Museum)
St Mary Magdalene Leper Hospital Chapel - 0.8 miles (Historic Church)
Scriven's Conduit - 0.8 miles (Historic Building)
The King's Board - 0.8 miles (Historic Building)
Nearest Accommodation to Gloucester, St Nicholas Church:
Nearest Self Catering Cottages
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