St Lawrence's Church, Denton

St Lawrence’s Church stands on Town Lane in Denton, a town in Tameside, Greater Manchester. It is one of only 29 surviving timber-framed churches and chapels in England. The chapelry of Denton was established in 1531 with a chapel of ease, then Roman Catholic, within the Diocese of Lichfield and dedicated to St James. The church was rededicated to St Lawrence in 1839 and became a parish church in 1854. In 1872 it was expanded and remodelled by J. Medland Taylor and Henry Taylor. The building contains 16th-century stained glass and was designated a Grade II* listed building in 1967. It was restored between 1993 and 2003, funded by Tameside Council, and further restoration began in 2009. The church’s timber frame is a rare survival from the 16th century. The stained glass windows add colour and history to the interior. The Grade II* listing recognises its national importance. Inside, visitors find a simple nave with box pews and a three-decker pulpit. The 16th-century stained glass remains in place above the chancel arch. Outside, the church sits among mature trees on a quiet lane. The Grade II* listing protects its historic fabric. The restoration work has preserved the original timbers and fittings. The church’s quiet setting contrasts with the town around it.