Christ Church, Liverpool

Christ Church, Toxteth Park, is a distinguished Anglican parish church located on Linnet Lane in Liverpool. It serves an active congregation in the deanery of Wavertree and Toxteth, within the archdeaconry and diocese of Liverpool. Christ Church is recognized as a Grade II listed building, underscoring its architectural and historical significance.

Constructed between 1867 and 1871, the church was designed by the notable architectural firm Culshaw and Sumners and funded by philanthropist George Horsfall. The church was consecrated on April 27, 1871, by the Rt Revd William Jacobson, Bishop of Chester. Its architecture features the Decorated Gothic style, with stone construction and slate roofs. The design incorporates a six-bay nave with a clerestory, north and south aisles, a canted chancel, a vestry, and a porch. A striking broach spire crowns the north tower, complete with angel-corbelled balconies and louvered bell openings.

The church’s interior is equally remarkable, featuring slender quatrefoil piers supporting six-bay arcades and a hammer-beam roof. The sanctuary floor and reredos, designed by Bernard Miller in 1930, add to its beauty. Stained glass windows, attributed to Hardman and later artists like Gustave Hiller and Shrigley and Hunt, adorn the church, with one window in the south aisle depicting Liverpool Cathedral.

The church's original pipe organ, built by C. and J. Whiteley, was replaced by a three-manual organ by Willis, adding to the church's reputation for musical excellence. Known for its architectural elegance, vibrant choral tradition, and inclusive spirit, Christ Church is a beloved landmark, easily accessible near Princes Park and Sefton Park, making it a cultural and spiritual treasure in Liverpool.