Established in the year 1840, the Saint Thomas Church situated on the idyllic Rajpur road is considered to be the oldest church of Dehradun. Constructed by thirteen soldiers of the East India Company, the rustic St. Thomas church exhibits marvellous Gothic style architecture.
It is the only Garrison Church of that time where the British Soldiers attended church services on each Sunday. The present service time starts from 10:30 am (Summer) 11:00 (Winter) every Sunday.
Why you should visit St. Thomas Church?
If you are a religious one, an admirer of ancient architecture or a pop music lover you must visit the St. Thomas Church of Dehradun. You’ll be surprised to know that it was here that the famous British musician, performer, actor and philanthropist Sir Cliff Richard also known as ‘British Elvis’ was baptised in the year 1940. He is better known for producing hits like ‘Bachelor Boy’, ‘Miss You Nights’, ‘We Don’t Talk Anymore’, ‘Mistletoe & Wine’ and ‘The Young Ones’ out of which, many have been reprised by top selling artists of today. Born in Lucknow as Harry Rodger Webb in October 1940, the ace singer’s family shifted to Dehradun and lived here for a brief while, before moving to Howrah in West Bengal and finally to Britain in 1948, following independence. Later in 1980, Harry Rodger Webb changed his name to Cliff Richard by a deed poll.
How to reach St. Thomas Church in Dehradun
St. Thomas Church is situated at Dila Ram Bazaar on Rajpur road, Dehradun. It is located only 2 km away from Dehradun Clock Tower and can be easily accessed by local transport. You can either take the Rajpur road bus or Vikram no.1 from Astley Hall to reach this church. Dehradun railway station at 4 km away is the nearest railhead to St. Thomas Church. Jolly Grant airport at 30 km away is the closest airport from the church.
Hello,
My great grandfather William Nolan Boutflower married Mary Frances Swetenham on 28 December 1893 at St Thomas church Dehra Dun. My wife and I will be visiting Dehra Dun from Tasmania in October of this year and will be visiting the church at the same time. I am hoping that it will be open for inspection on Sat 26 October in the afternoon.
Also, their son, Edmund Frances Boutflower died in Dehra Dun on 11 March 1924 at the age of 30. I believe he may be buried in the cemetery of St Thomas but I am not sure. Can you help me with my enquiries and arranging a visit to the church.
Thanking you in anticipation
Michael Hawkins