St Edburgha'S Church, Yardley

St Edburgha’s Church Yardley, Birmingham: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

St Edburgha’s Church, located in the heart of Yardley, Birmingham, is a compelling historical and architectural landmark that connects visitors with over a thousand years of English religious and community life. As one of Birmingham’s most significant Grade I listed buildings, the church is celebrated for its Saxon roots, striking medieval architecture, and ongoing role as a vibrant community centre. Whether you are a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or a visitor seeking an authentic heritage experience, St Edburgha’s Church offers a unique window into the region’s past and present. (Yardley Conservation Society) (Birmingham Conservation Trust) (stedburghasyardley.com)

Introduction
Early History and Saxon Foundations
Medieval Expansion and Architectural Highlights
Interior Features and Artistic Heritage
Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Getting There and Travel Tips
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

Early History and Saxon Foundations

St Edburgha’s Church stands on a site with continuous Christian worship dating back over a millennium. The earliest documentary evidence of Yardley appears in a charter from 972 AD, in which King Edgar confirmed the gift of the Manor of Yardley to Pershore Abbey. While the current structure is not of Saxon origin, archaeological research suggests that a church or place of worship existed here well before the Norman Conquest.

The church is dedicated to St Edburgha, a Saxon princess and granddaughter of King Alfred the Great. St Edburgha became a nun, was later canonized, and died in 960 AD. Her life is commemorated through various symbols and motifs found throughout the church.

Medieval Expansion and Architectural Highlights

13th Century: The Chancel

The oldest part of the present church is the chancel, built around 1230 AD. Surviving features include a narrow lancet window, the priest’s door, a piscina, and visible traces of the original roofline. These architectural elements exemplify Early English Gothic style. (Yardley Conservation Society)

14th–15th Centuries: Nave, Transepts, and Tower

Significant expansion in the 14th century gave the church its cruciform layout. The nave and north and south transepts were added around 1330, increasing the building’s size and grandeur. The north aisle was extended before 1400, and the 15th century saw the addition of the Becket Chapel and the iconic tower and spire, completed in 1461. The lower sections of the spire are original, while the upper section was rebuilt in 1898. (Worcester & Dudley Historic Churches)

Interior Features and Artistic Heritage

Chancel and Monuments

Inside the chancel, visitors can find brasses and monuments commemorating local families, including the Greswolde and Este families. The largest monument is dedicated to Henry Greswolde (d. 1700), his wife Ann, and their children. The Jacobean pulpit from 1627, a gift from Edward Este, stands as a key historical feature.

Nave, North Aisle, and Roof Bosses

The nave’s current pews, installed 100–150 years ago, replaced medieval benches. The oldest monument in the church is an incised slab for Thomas Este (1462). The north aisle contains medieval roof timbers and a 600-year-old carved boss symbolizing the Five Wounds of Christ. Stained glass windows and heraldic shields add to the church’s artistic legacy. (Yardley Conservation Society)

The South Transept (Gilbey Chapel)

This area houses monuments to the Este family and a painted Greswolde family coat of arms, or “hatchment”, once displayed at funerals.

Fictive Panelling and Decorative Details

A rare example of fictive panelling—painted wall decoration simulating wood—is found within the church, making it one of only two known English churches to feature this technique. (Birmingham Heritage Week)

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Opening Hours:
- Monday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM (after morning services)
Admission: Free entry; donations are welcomed to support conservation.
Guided Tours: Available Saturdays at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM; advance booking recommended via the official website.
Accessibility: Wheelchair access via a main entrance ramp. Accessible restrooms are provided.
Special Events: The church hosts concerts, heritage open days, and educational programs. Check the official events page for updates.

Getting There and Travel Tips

Address: St Edburgha’s Church, Church Rd, Yardley, Birmingham B33 8PD

By Car: Located just off the A45 Coventry Road. On-street parking is available; check local restrictions.
By Public Transport: Lea Hall train station is 1.5 miles away, offering connections to Birmingham New Street and Coventry. Bus routes X12 and 11 serve nearby stops.
On Foot/Bicycle: Accessible via local walking and cycle paths. The church is set within the picturesque Old Yardley Conservation Area.

Nearby Attractions

Yardley Historical Village: Timber-framed cottages, a historic blacksmith’s forge, and the Trust School.
Blakesley Hall Museum: A Tudor house with interactive exhibits and gardens.
Sheldon Country Park: Over 300 acres of parkland and a working farm.
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery: Renowned collections of art and local history.
Sutton Park: One of Europe’s largest urban parks, ideal for walking and picnics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the visiting hours of St Edburgha’s Church?
A: Monday–Saturday 10:00 AM–4:00 PM; Sunday 12:00 PM–3:00 PM.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No; donations are encouraged.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, on Saturdays at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Book via the church’s website.

Q: Is the church accessible for wheelchair users?
A: Yes; there is ramp access and accessible restrooms.

Q: Can I take photographs inside the church?
A: Photography is allowed without flash. Please respect services and other visitors.

Q: Where can I park?
A: Limited on-street parking is available. Arrive early during busy periods.

Q: Are there virtual tours?
A: Yes; a virtual tour is available on the church’s official website.

Conclusion and Call to Action

St Edburgha’s Church in Yardley stands as a testament to Birmingham’s enduring spiritual, architectural, and communal heritage. Its Saxon origins, medieval artistry, and ongoing community role make it a must-visit among Birmingham historical sites. Visitors are welcomed not only to admire its beauty but to participate in its living traditions, from guided tours to seasonal festivals.

For the latest information, downloadable audio tours, and event updates, visit the official church website and consider downloading the Audiala app for a richer visitor experience. Share your visit on social media and become a part of Yardley’s ongoing story.