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.
Award success for St James' Church, Cameley
On 4th June 2026, the Friends of Cameley Church were thrilled to learn that they had been awarded ‘Fundraising Achievement of the Year’ for 2026 by The Marsh Charitable Trust.
Open Day at St James' Church, Cameley
Join us at St James' Church, Cameley, on Sunday 14th June 2026 for an Open Day from 12.00 p.m. to 4.00 p.m. There will be guided tours of the church with explanations of the recently conserved wall paintings, as well as tea and cake. We hope to see you there!
Services
