St Stephen’s Church, Shepherd’s Bush
A Gothic Revival parish church that has served Shepherd’s Bush for nearly 175 years, from welcoming the Windrush Generation to feeding the homeless today.
At a glance
St Stephen’s is a Grade II listed Church of England parish church designed by architect Anthony Salvin in the Gothic Revival style. Built in 1849–50, it stands on the south side of Uxbridge Road, west of Shepherd’s Bush tube station. The building is currently listed on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register due to roof damage.
History
The church was constructed during the mid-nineteenth-century expansion of London’s suburbs. In the 1950s, St Stephen’s became a welcoming presence for members of the Windrush Generation arriving from the West Indies. In 1962, Reverend Wilfred Wood, born in Barbados, became curate at St Stephen’s—a pivotal moment in the Church of England’s history, as Wood would later become the denomination’s first black bishop. Vicar John Asbridge’s response to local housing crises led to the founding of the Shepherds Bush Housing Association in 1966.
What you see
The church exemplifies the Gothic Revival style favored by Salvin in the mid-nineteenth century. Its architectural character reflects the period’s return to medieval ecclesiastical forms, though detailed descriptions of its specific architectural features are not currently available.
Cultural significance
St Stephen’s represents both architectural heritage and living social ministry. The church’s openness to Caribbean migrants during the post-war period was historically significant, while its role in the early career of Wilfred Wood connects it to a watershed moment in the Church of England’s modern history. Today it remains a vital community institution, serving up to 100 homeless people a hot meal every Monday.
Key facts
- Built 1849–50 by architect Anthony Salvin
- Grade II listed building
- Located: south side of Uxbridge Road, corner of Coverdale Road, Shepherd’s Bush, London
- Coordinates: 51.5058, −0.229
- Listed on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register
Practical information & getting there
St Stephen’s is located west of Shepherd’s Bush tube station on the London Underground Central, Circle and District lines. The church is an active parish and welcomes visitors. Those interested in the building’s heritage should contact the church directly or consult Historic England’s records regarding its current restoration needs and fundraising efforts.
Sources & resources
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