St James
SY6 7JZ Open daylight hours, parking, wheelchair ramp available
The elevated position of St James church in the centre of Cardington on what is believed to be an ancient henge monument gives it an impressive setting nestled among the surrounding hills with its tall crenellated tower visible from all approaches.
The circular churchyard has five wooden gates, significant in St James’ pastoral role, including the south gate for funerals and the wedding gate by the war memorial.
The eastern side of the nave is 12th century, the chancel and tower are Early English. The porch is dated from 1639 and the great door 1648. There is an unusual carved Jacobean pulpit, a Victorian font, and splayed Norman windows.
The monument to Chief Justice Leighton, 1607 is the earliest of its kind in Shropshire.
Car parking at the village hall opposite.
A detailed history may be found at
www.cardingtonparishshropshire.co.uk
Photos by Shropshire Historic Churches Trust.