St James' Church
Cameley
A beautiful and unique twelfth-century church of historical significance
St James' Church, Cameley
St James’ Church, Cameley, is one of England’s unspoilt treasures, with a unique atmosphere and charm. Its greatest treasures, however, are contained within its almost unaltered interior. The poet Sir John Betjeman described it as a ‘Rip Van Winkle’ church, and it features in Sir Simon Jenkins’ book England’s Thousand Best Churches.
The magnificent collection of wall paintings, dating from the twelfth century to the eighteenth century, was first uncovered in the 1960s, and the varied designs perfectly demonstrate the changing history of St James’ from before and after the Reformation.
Fundraising success
In partnership with the Churches Conservation Trust, the Friends of St James’ Cameley are delighted that funds have been secured to conserve the medieval wall paintings at St James' Church, Cameley. The wall paintings were uncovered in the 1960s, including an intriguing and unique jester. In 2024, a conservation report identified the need to stabilise the painted surfaces of the paintings in order to prevent their permanent loss.
A total of £35,000 has been raised for conservation work through a range of activities at the church, including concerts and expert-led talks. We are very grateful to grant funders and individuals who, through their generosity, helped to raise the funds required in just seven months. Conservation of the wall paintings will include delicate cleaning, then injection of grouting between the plaster and the solid wall behind, which will bind and stabilise the paintings. This work is scheduled to start in spring 2026.
Thank you to everyone who supported the fundraising project, which will conserve the paintings for future generations.
Services
