Our Church
A living faith,
an ancient hill
For more than eight centuries, this hilltop in Elstree has been a place of prayer. Discover the story of St Nicholas — its people, its heritage and its calling.
Our Church
For more than eight centuries, this hilltop in Elstree has been a place of prayer. Discover the story of St Nicholas — its people, its heritage and its calling.
In the heart of the village
St Nicholas' is a family-friendly church in the heart of Elstree village, easily found on the High Street — you can see our spire at the top of the hill.
We are a worshipping community that loves its neighbourhood. Our doors are open to seekers and to the sure, to the lifelong faithful and to those stepping inside a church for the very first time. Whoever you are, you will find a welcome here.
Our community matters deeply to us. We hold strong and long-standing links with St Nicholas School and with our local care homes, sharing in the life of the village through worship, friendship and service.
Heritage
There has been a place of Christian worship on this site since at least 1188 AD. The church that stands today was built in 1852 — a much-loved Grade II listed building of knapped flint, with soaring lancet windows and a slender broach spire that has watched over Elstree for generations.
Within these walls, generations have been baptised at the ancient stone font, joined in marriage, and mourned with hope. To step through the studded oak door is to enter a story of prayer that stretches back across the centuries — and forward into the life of our village today. A short illustrated history, “St Nicholas Church Elstree — a short history,” is available in church.
In flint & oak & glass
Stronger together
St Nicholas is one of four churches in the Team Parish of Elstree & Borehamwood, working side by side to serve God and this community.
Together we share worship, ministry and mission across the week — so that wherever you are in the parish, and whatever the day, there is a church nearby ready to welcome you.
Our ministry team
Leads the Team Parish of Elstree & Borehamwood. Enquiries about weddings, christenings, baptisms, confirmations and services.
Ministers across the parish, with particular care for Holy Cross and St Michael & All Angels.
Enquiries about memorials, headstones, interments and funerals at St Nicholas.
What shapes us
At the heart of all we do is the worship of God — in Word and Sacrament, in stillness and in song, week by week and season by season.
Every person is made in the image of God. We seek to be a place of genuine welcome, where all are valued and none is a stranger.
Faith works through love. We serve our neighbours through café and community, care and companionship, meeting real needs with practical hope.
Safeguarding
The safety and wellbeing of everyone in our church community is of the highest importance. St Nicholas is committed to promoting a safer culture — protecting children and adults at risk from harm, and caring for those affected by abuse. We follow the safeguarding policies and practice guidance of the Church of England and the Diocese of St Albans.
If you have a safeguarding concern, please speak to a member of clergy, our Parish Safeguarding Officer, or contact the Diocese of St Albans safeguarding team. In an emergency, always call the police.
Come and see
The best way to know St Nicholas is to join us. We would love to welcome you this Sunday.