A Gothic Revival parish church built under the Church Building Act, with architectural contributions from generations of the Pinch family and a crypt containing over two centuries of Bath burials.
At a glance
St Saviour’s is one of three surviving Commissioners’ churches in Bath—purpose-built Anglican parishes funded by Parliament under the 1824 Act to serve expanding industrial towns. The church combines Decorated and Perpendicular Gothic Revival detailing in its sturdy limestone construction.
History
Founded by Archdeacon Charles Moysey following the Church Building Act of 1824, St Saviour’s was constructed between 1829 and 1832. The design is probably attributed to John Pinch the younger, working from plans by his father, John Pinch the elder—two of Bath’s leading Georgian and early Victorian architects. The church was enlarged in 1882 when architect C. E. Davis added a chancel. Its crypt opened in 1832, and Rear-Admiral Volant Vashon Ballard became the first person interred there that October. More than 200 burials followed before the grounds closed in 1891; burials continued at Locksbrook Cemetery until 1937.
What you see
The building displays characteristics of both Decorated and Perpendicular Gothic Revival styles. Its Grade II* listed status, awarded in 1950, recognises the quality of its architectural detailing. The 1882 chancel extension integrated with the original structure.
Cultural significance
St Saviour’s represents a pivotal moment in English church building, when Parliament funded new parishes to accommodate industrial-era urban growth. Its survival as one of only three Commissioners’ churches in Bath underscores its rarity and architectural importance.
Key facts
- Country: United Kingdom
- City: Bath and North East Somerset
- Construction dates: 1829–1832
- Coordinates: 51.3958, -2.3465
- Listed status: Grade II* (designated 1950)
- Crypt opened: 1832
- Chancel added: 1882
Practical information & getting there
St Saviour’s is located in the Larkhall area of Bath. Bath is served by train, coach and car; consult local tourism information for church visiting hours and access details.
Sources & resources
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