St James Church Taunton: Heritage Open Days
, a {, text-decoration: none;, color: #464feb;, }, tr th, tr td {, border: 1px solid #e6e6e6;, }, tr th {, background-color: #f5f5f5;, }, , Saturday 12th September, , 10:00am to 4:00pm, , Saturday 19th
At St James Church, research is ongoing into the 850-year history of the church and the people who have been part of parish life. Discover the stories of soldiers, sailors, tinkers, tailors, teachers, preachers, sextons, sweeps and many more, including some Monmouth rebels who are believed to be buried somewhere within our churchyard.
The church tower, which celebrated the 150th anniversary of its rebuilding last year, will be open to visitors. Standing 120 feet high, it offers commanding views across the town and surrounding area. The bell chamber, home to eight bells, will also be open.
Tower and bell chamber tours will take place throughout the day, with each tour lasting approximately 30 to 40 minutes. Please note the age and accessibility guidance below. For safety and insurance reasons, only children aged 8 and over are permitted to climb the tower. However, a virtual tower tour will also be available for those unable to make the climb.
Displays throughout the church will highlight the lives of some of the fascinating characters from the past, while living history guides will explain how the building has changed and developed over the centuries.
There will also be an archive zone where visitors can try researching their own ancestors, along with a children's activity area featuring traditional games from the past.
Light refreshments will be available throughout the day, and visitors will be welcome to explore the churchyard's ongoing rewilding and eco area.
Visitors are encouraged to come along, bring friends and family, and discover more about the fascinating and sometimes eccentric history of St James Church and its community.
The Heritage Open Days event will take place on Saturday 12th September and Saturday 19th September. While the church will only be open for Heritage Open Days on these two dates, the displays will remain in place for visitors following the Taunton Heritage Trail.
Tickets and pricing
Free entry
