Historic Churches of North Shields

North Shields wears its history on its skyline, and its churches are among the town's most rewarding buildings, telling the story of a community shaped by the sea, by nonconformity and by Victorian confidence. Whether you are drawn by the architecture, the history or a quiet moment, here is a guide to the historic churches of North Shields.

Christ Church

The town's Anglican parish church, Christ Church, dates from the 1650s and 60s, when it was built in the plain style of a Presbyterian preaching house, with four arms of equal length and a pulpit at the centre. As the congregation grew, the four corners were extended and galleries added by 1793, and the chancel was enlarged in 1869. It remains the parish church of North Shields Christ Church in the Diocese of Newcastle, and its churchyard and setting are among the oldest parts of the town.

Best for: The oldest church in the town, and a rare survival of a 17th-century preaching-house plan.

St Columba's United Reformed Church

One of North Shields' architectural set pieces, St Columba's on Northumberland Square was built in 1857 by the celebrated local architect John Dobson, the man behind much of Newcastle's grandest architecture. Formerly known as the "Square Pres", it is a handsome two-storey ashlar sandstone building in the Palladian style, under a slate roof. It carries forward a Presbyterian and Congregational tradition in the town that stretches back to 1662.

Best for: A John Dobson landmark and the heir to more than 360 years of nonconformist worship in the town.

A wider Christian heritage

North Shields grew as a busy port and its churches reflect a mix of traditions, from the Roman Catholic community to the Methodist and other free churches that served the growing 19th-century town. Several of these buildings survive across the town centre and the surrounding neighbourhoods, and Churches Together in North Shields links many of the town's congregations today. A wander up from the Fish Quay "up the banks" takes in several of them, and rewards anyone interested in the town's social and architectural history.

Visiting

Many churches are open for services and events, and some open at other times for visitors; it is always worth checking the individual church's website or noticeboard for opening arrangements before making a special trip. Please be mindful of services and private prayer when visiting.

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This guide is a general introduction to the town's church heritage; always check current opening and service times with each church.