Although the view is now verdant and shrouded in handsome trees, only a few decades ago the whole hill was surrounded by a sprawling, filthy slum. Not all change is for the worst.

This Saturday (21st September 2019) there’s an open day at St. Matthews Church in Walsall, the prominent landmark at the very crest of Church Hill. You can take tours, go up the tower, and visit the vaults.

This venerable church has parts that are 800 years old – the building is alive with history.

The event is part of the Heritage Open Day project, and there are lots of other events going on. Check out the website.

If you can’t make it, theres a brilliant gallery of photos at the foot of this post, sent to the blog by reader and local historian Clive Roberts, who visited the vaults a few years ago.

Please do visit if you can.

St Matthew’s Parish Church, Walsall – Open Day

St Matthew’s Parish Church, St Matthew’s Close, Walsall, West Midlands, WS1 3DG

St Matthew’s Parish Church is celebrating National Heritage Day this year with a heritage open day. Visitors to our church can see a 12th century crypt, beneath the chancel, including parts of the east wall of the medieval church; a 15th century chancel, with a set of finely carved misericords or choir stalls; a 15th century font decorated with the coats of arms of local families; the monument to Sir Roger Hillary of Bescot, a 14th century knight and courtier; the nave, remodelled in 1819-21 with an impressive plaster ceiling; stained glass windows by Burlison & Grylls, Clayton & Bell and other makers; a fine bell tower with a tall spire; and outside, a rare archway under the chancel, allowing access around the churchyard; and a fine view, weather permitting, of the surrounding hills including Cannock Chase and the Wrekin. 

There will be afternoon tea and cakes, stalls, community information, a visit from the Mayor of Walsall and lots to see and do.

Opening Times

Saturday 21 September: 10:30-2:30pm

Look out for the church spire – we’re on Church Hill, overlooking Walsall Town Centre