Perched on the heights of Lansdown, with sweeping views across the city of Bath, St Stephen’s Church is more than just a landmark—it’s a living testament to faith, architecture, and community spirit.
The story begins in the mid-19th century, when the northern slopes of Bath were rapidly developing. Lansdown, then a growing residential area, needed a place of worship for its expanding population. Visionary minds and faithful hearts came together to make that dream a reality.
Designed by the notable architect James Wilson of Bath, St Stephen’s was consecrated in 1840. It was built in the Early English Gothic style, a deliberate nod to the spiritual heritage of medieval England. The church’s tower and spire, which still command attention today, were later additions—completing the striking silhouette we now recognize.
But the beauty of St Stephen’s wasn’t only in its architecture. From its earliest days, it served as a spiritual beacon for the local community. A place of gathering, solace, and celebration. Even as Bath evolved, St Stephen’s remained a constant presence on the Lansdown skyline.
In Part Two, we’ll explore how the church adapted through war, urban change, and the shifting sands of the 20th century—preserving its purpose while embracing the new.