St Andrew's Church, Clifton

The church was first mentioned in a document dated 1154, when William de Clifton gave the church’s patronage to the Abbey of St. Augustine. It quickly became the parish church of Clifton. In 1645, following the Siege of Bristol, the church had fallen in a state of considerable decay and was partially destroyed during the siege. In 1654, plans were approved to reconstruct the church. By the beginning of the 18th century, the population of Clifton had increased and it was deemed necessary to expand the church. In 1716 a North Aisle was added, followed by a South Aisle in 1768. In 1739, John Wesley preached in the church, commenting that the church’s congregation consisted of ‘Many Rich’. By…

The original 12th century church was a small and modest Norman structure, featuring a small nave, which was sufficient to serve the small population of Clifton. Following its partial destruction in 1645, the church was expanded and was built in a much more Puritan style. In 1819, James Foster designed the church in a Gothic style. It featured a large nave and a crypt. The interior was built in a rectangular shape to accommodate as many worshipers as possible. The bell tower was rectangular and was located above the entrance.