Surely you’ve noticed the imposing Neo-Gothic structure before you. This is Christ The King, a church with a fascinating history.
Christ The King was built between 1850 and 1854. Raphael Brandon designed it for the Catholic Apostolic Church. The church stands in Gordon Square, Bloomsbury. It is near Dr Williams’s Library and University College London.
Note the Early English Neo-Gothic style. The church’s cruciform plan adds to its grandeur. It is constructed from Bath stone. Its roof is tiled.
However, look closely. You may notice something is missing at Christ The King. The west side lacks two bays. This prevented the construction of a planned façade. Also a crossing tower with a 150 ft spire was never completed. The base remains with mostly blind arcading.
The interior of Christ The King is remarkable. The nave features a triforium and clerestory. Observe the timber hammer beam roof. It features angels and snowflake designs. A cathedra is present for the Catholic Apostolic Church’s angel. This is similar to a bishop.
The crossing showcases roll-moulded arches. These arches rest on clustered columns. Light streams through the transepts. The south transept windows are particularly striking. They depict Christ in Majesty, surrounded by saints, apostles, and angels. The rose window, crafted by Archibald Keightley Nicholson, displays a dove. Musician angels and cherubim and seraphim surround it.
The sanctuary boasts stone rib-vaulting. You can see foliated bosses on its roof. Augustus Pugin designed the sanctuary lamp. Beyond the sanctuary lies the Lady Chapel. Previously known as the English Chapel, it is separated by a screen. The chapel has a richly painted timber roof. An east facade features arcaded lancet windows.
Annette Peach noted the church’s design. She highlighted the blend of 13th and 15th-century Gothic elements. These elements reflect the Brandon brothers’ study of ecclesiastical architecture.
Christ The King has seen changes over the years. From 1963 to 1994, it served as the University Church of Christ the King. It was a worship center for students. Music played a significant role in its services.
Today, Euston Church, an Anglican mission, holds services here. Forward in Faith also uses the Lady Chapel for weekday services.
Christ The King was listed as a Grade I building on June 10, 1954. This recognizes its architectural and historical importance. The listing means it is one of only 129 Christian buildings in London with this designation.
Take a moment to appreciate the organ. Gray and Davison erected it in 1853. Edmund Hart Turpin was one of the first organists. The organ has been modified over time. A sub bass 16 ft was added to the choir-organ in 1903.
Christ The King stands as a testament to faith and architectural ambition. Its incomplete features and rich interior tell a compelling story. It is a place of worship. It is also a landmark. Its history echoes through the centuries.