Church of St. Philip & St. Stephen, Manchester

The Church of Saint Philip with Saint Stephen is based on Wilton Place in the west of Salford, close to the city’s Meadow parkland and the University of Salford campus. A stone-built Georgian church in the Greek style, the church was built in 1824, and is one of Greater Manchester’s finest examples of Georgian architecture. Designed by architect Robert Smirke, the distinctive rounded front of the church has inspired similar designs around the country, including two London churches. Originally Saint Philip’s, the church took on its present name when nearby Saint Stephen’s Church closed in 1962, and the church took over the running of Saint Stephen’s parish and congregation.

The still active church describes itself as a welcoming, modern Anglican church which holds a lively weekly Communion at 9:45 am each Sunday. The church also offers quieter, contemplative services each Tuesday evening at 7:00 pm. Saint Phil’s, as it is known locally, has a strong musical tradition, holding regular organ recitals and Taize services, as well as a range of concerts. UK pop band Sugababes have even performed at the venue. The church opens its doors to visitors for two hours each Wednesday, and is accessible to wheelchair users and visitors with sensory impairment