Knowle Parish Church

Knowle Parish Church stands in the centre of Knowle, a town in the Metropolitan Borough of Solihull. It is a Grade I listed building, one of the oldest in the area. The church dates from the 15th century and was consecrated in 1403. A college was founded there in 1416 and lasted until 1547. The building is known for its high chancel and a processional subway running from north to south. From 1403 to 1858 it served as a daughter church of Hampton. The church has seen several restorations, including one in 1860 and another in 1900 costing £1,000. The 1900 work, supervised by architect J.A. Chatwin, added a new organ chamber, clergy and choir vestry. The organ and choir were moved from the north transept to the north side of the chancel. The north chapel was opened out to the church, and old stalls were removed from the end of the south aisle to the choir. Inside, visitors find the Walter James Bird organ and a peal of eight bells. Three of the bells date from 1931, and the rest were recast in 1979 by John Taylor of Loughborough. The high chancel and processional subway remain notable features. The church’s long history and careful restorations make it a place of quiet interest. Its architecture and fittings reflect centuries of use and care.