It was built from 1865 to 1868 and designed by E. W. Pugin in the Gothic Revival style.

It was founded and is still administered by the Benedictines from Belmont Abbey, Herefordshire.

In 1785, a chapel was built, it was located probably close to Catherine Street in the town centre.

In 1824, with the Catholic population of the town increasing and the patronage of the local Lowther family of baronets, the chapel was expanded.

[4] In 1834, the site of the current church was given to the Benedictines by William Lowther, 1st Earl of Lonsdale.