St. Edmund's Roman Catholic Church, Southampton

Saint Edmund's Roman Catholic Church in Southampton is a historic parish church located at the corner of The Avenue and Rockstone Place. Built in 1889, it is a Grade II listed building and stands as a significant religious and architectural landmark in the city. The church was established to meet the growing needs of the Catholic population after the Reformation, following the construction of the Pugin-designed Saint Joseph's Church. In 1867, a decision was made to build a new church, leading to the establishment of a temporary iron structure in 1884, dedicated to Saint Edmund of Abingdon, co-patron of the Diocese of Portsmouth.

Construction of the permanent Saint Edmund's Church began on 21 June 1888 under the direction of architect J. William Lunn, who also designed several other churches in the region. The church was opened on 20 November 1889, coinciding with the birthdate of Saint Edmund of Abingdon. The opening ceremony was attended by prominent figures such as Bishop John Vertue of Portsmouth and Canon Alexander Scoles.

Throughout its history, the church has undergone several renovations, including a redecoration of the sanctuary in 1918, which saw the addition of stained-glass windows by Lavers, Barraud, and Westlake, as well as paintings and communion rails by Hardman & Powell. A significant renovation took place between 1967 and 1969, during which the church’s west-end spire was removed, and a new organ was installed.

In 1988, a fire caused substantial damage to the building, but the church was fully restored and reopened in 1989. The church complex also includes Saint Edmund's Lodge, a presbytery, and a Catholic student accommodation facility. A 1960s-era church hall is also located to the south of the main building.