Eccles Parish Church Opens Its Doors as Archaeological Dig Reveals Hidden History

Visitors to Eccles Parish Church will have a rare opportunity this month to witness history being uncovered beneath one of Salford’s oldest buildings.

An archaeological excavation is now under way beneath the church’s chancel floor as part of a major restoration project to address long-standing structural issues. The work is expected to reveal fascinating insights into Eccles’ past, with archaeologists believing there are around 20 burials beneath the chancel dating from the late eighteenth century.

The excavation has been commissioned to investigate subsidence beneath the floor, which has restricted the use of the chancel for several years. Records indicate that the identities and locations of those buried within the church are known, and any human remains uncovered during the project will be treated with dignity, respect and reverence.

The work is being overseen by the University of Salford’s Archaeology Department following approval from the Chancellor of the Diocese of Manchester. Alongside the excavation, Eccles Parish Church’s historic Minton tiles are being carefully lifted, preserved and stored before being reinstated once restoration work is completed.

A Chance to Witness Local History

The church is encouraging local residents, history enthusiasts and heritage supporters to visit during a series of open days and viewing opportunities.

As the oldest building in Salford, Eccles Parish Church has stood at the heart of the community for centuries. While the original church dates back to the 12th century, successive generations have expanded and adapted the building, creating the layers of history that archaeologists are now beginning to uncover.

This is not the first time excavations have revealed remarkable discoveries. A smaller archaeological investigation in 1996 uncovered the coffin lids of John Gilbert, agent to the Duke of Bridgewater, and his wife Lydia. These can still be viewed today in St Katherine’s Chapel alongside the Brereton Memorial.

Heritage Open Days and Guided Tours

A programme of Heritage Open Days is taking place throughout September, offering visitors the opportunity to see the excavation work up close and explore the church’s remarkable history. The dates are as follows:

Saturday 12 September, 10am to 4pm

• Bell Tower open
• Guided heritage tours at 10.30am, 11.30am and 12.30pm

Sunday 13 September, 12pm to 4pm

• Holy Communion service from 11.15am to 12.30pm

Tuesday 15 September, 10am to 3pm

• Prayer group at 1.30pm

Thursday 17 September, 11am to 3pm

• Holy Communion service from 10.15am to 10.55am

Friday 18 September, 10am to 3pm

Saturday 19 September, 10am to 4pm

• Bell Tower open
• Guided heritage tours at 10.30am, 11.30am and 12.30pm

Sunday 20 September, 12.30pm to 4pm

• Holy Communion service from 11.15am to 12.30pm

In addition to these open days, members of the public can watch the excavation progress during regular viewing sessions on Thursdays between 11am and 3pm.

Supporting the Restoration

The archaeological work forms part of a wider restoration programme expected to cost more than £250,000.

Engineers and specialists have identified a number of significant structural concerns within the chancel, including a sunken floor, movement in the sanctuary step, detached marble cladding, tilting of the chancel rail and voids beneath sections of the tiled floor.

By undertaking the excavation and restoration now, the church hopes to preserve an important part of Salford’s heritage for future generations while uncovering new stories from its past.

For those with an interest in local history, archaeology or church heritage, this promises to be a unique opportunity to see history literally being brought to light beneath the floor of one of our diocese’s most historic churches.