Architectural Features
C16.
Parapet gabled porch and north aisle date from late C19 alterations, north doorway reusing a Norman voussoir as keystone.
The path is lined with clipped yew trees. St. James the Great is a Grade II listed church that dates back to Norman times. Gustav Holst lived in Cranham for a while and his mother played the organ in the church.
C13 lancet restored and reset in west gable end.
Chancel rebuilt late C19 with Perpendicular style 3-light east window, panel below having carved Crucifixion scene.
Two sets of sheep shears carved above north west buttress may indicate tower was a gift from a local wool merchant.
String course below crenellated parapet has carved gargoyle diagonally at each corner.
Interior: 3-bay late C15 south arcade with octagonal piers copied in late C19 north aisle.
St. James's The church is mainly 15th century but there is a 13thc. lancet window in the south aisle.
East window has 2 trefoil-headed jamb niches, each with carved figure.
Delicately carved pulpit front matches altar frontal - both late C19.
Octagonal C19 stone font on tall fluted base.
Fine Baroque monument in south aisle with segmental pediment surmounted by crest and torch bearing putti.
Several C18 monuments in tower.
Some good stained glass: north west window by Wailes of Newcastle.