About St James Without-the-Priory-Gate Church
Right in the very centre of the village of Southwick, this Church, which is in the most beautiful condition, is a superb concert venue a few miles from Portsmouth, yet deep in the countryside.
The Church contains artefacts rescued from Southwick Priory, which was sacked as part of the Dissolution of the Monasteries.
The village of Southwick is a curious glimpse into the past - controlled by The Squire, the village thrives, with cottages, pubs and farmland all under control of a feudal landlord. Indeed, even the Church is under his control; although notionally in the Diocese of Portsmouth, it is The Squire who vets and appoints in the incumbent. We have used this lovely building with the kind permission of The Squire of Southwick.
Travel directions
Southwick is an easy journey by car, but visitors by train and bus will find that the journey is best made by taxi.
Southwick nestles in the shadow of Portsdown Hill.
Arriving by bus or train
The nearest rail and bus station is at Cosham. There is a taxi rank at the train station.
Arrriving by car
Southwick is on the B2177 from Portsmouth to Wickham. The village is signed from the foot of the north side of Portsdown Hill.
Map
Click for a Southwick street map that you can print. The venue is at the centre of the village.
Sat nav users
The postcode is PO17 6EB
Accessibility
The Church has level access for wheelchairs via the West Door.
The Church has some large pillars, but it can seat 150 with excellent visibility - there are seats in the North Aisle with a commanding view - just the right size for everyone to see and hear!
As with many of our Church Concerts, people have been known to bring a small cushion for the pews!
More
Visit St James' website here...
hago events at Southwick Church
- November 2007 - raising funds for the Rowans Hospice
- November 2006 - raising funds for the Rowans Hospice
Southwick Church on a glorious September evening
The Church interior - box pews and embroidered kneelers