St Mary's Anglican Church Busselton
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St Mary's Anglican Church Busselton

4.8
·24 reviews·Busselton, Australia

Western Australia's oldest stone church, a historic limestone and jarrah gem with a peaceful pioneer graveyard.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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St Mary's Anglican Church Busselton

St Mary's Anglican Church Busselton

Best Time

Daytime

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Western Australia's oldest stone church, a historic limestone and jarrah gem with a peaceful pioneer graveyard.

4.8
(24 reviews)

"A lovely historical old church in the heart of Busselton, a terrific location for ceremonies and gatherings."

Vertical photo
TIP

Respectful Visits

Remember this is an active place of worship. Be mindful of services and events when visiting. :pray:

Explore the Graveyard

Take time to read the historical tombstones, especially those of the early settlers. :gravestone:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Limestone Architecture

Historic Limestone Architecture

Exterior

Marvel at the oldest stone church in WA, built with local limestone and jarrah. A true testament to early settler craftsmanship.

Pioneer Graveyard

Pioneer Graveyard

Church Grounds

Read inscriptions on original tombstones, including those of the pioneering Bussell family. A quiet place for historical reflection.

Well-Maintained Gardens

Well-Maintained Gardens

Church Grounds

Enjoy the beautifully kept gardens surrounding the church, offering a peaceful and picturesque setting for a stroll.

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A Glimpse into History

Step back in time at St. Mary's Anglican Church, Western Australia's oldest stone church. Built by early settlers, its limestone and jarrah structure dates back to the 1840s. Explore the peaceful grounds and historic graveyard, a poignant reminder of the region's past.

Community and Serenity

More than just a historical site, St. Mary's remains an active place of worship. Visitors often find the church and its gardens to be a tranquil spot for reflection. While access inside may vary, the exterior and surrounding area offer a serene experience.

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
During events
Why
Community spirit
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#revfrjohn #chibothephotographer St Mary's Anglican church mkushi parish
@mkushiparish
4.2K likes • 79.6K views

Respectful Visits

Remember this is an active place of worship. Be mindful of services and events when visiting. :pray:

Explore the Graveyard

Take time to read the historical tombstones, especially those of the early settlers. :gravestone:

Church hurt is real. Now I clearly understand the people who say they have left church not God #anglicanchurchofsouthernafrica #anglicanchurch #stmarymagdaleneguild #marymagdalene #blowthisupforme
@emy_makhorole
3.9K likes • 84.7K views
The Georgiana Molloy Anglican School Green Team turned out en mass to give the historic St Mary's Church in Busselton a grand garden makeover this week. The students provided much-needed labour and enthusiasm to finish what has been a 6-month revitalization program, starting with St Mary’s Church receiving funding from the City of Busselton’s You Choose’ funding program. The You Choose program ask...
geographecatchmentcouncil
10 likes • 120 views

Garden Serenity

The gardens are lovely for a quiet walk and reflection. :deciduous_tree:

Check for Events

Look out for community events like pet blessings or Christmas lunches. :calendar:

St Mary’s Anglican Church . . . #stmarysbusselton #busselton #anglicanchurch
jessica.austin3333
18 likes • 184 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Respectful Visits

Remember this is an active place of worship. Be mindful of services and events when visiting. :pray:

Explore the Graveyard

Take time to read the historical tombstones, especially those of the early settlers. :gravestone:

Garden Serenity

The gardens are lovely for a quiet walk and reflection. :deciduous_tree:

Check for Events

Look out for community events like pet blessings or Christmas lunches. :calendar:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(24 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise St. Mary's Anglican Church for its historical significance as WA's oldest stone church and its beautifully maintained grounds. It's noted as a peaceful place for reflection, with the pioneer graveyard offering a poignant glimpse into the past. While interior access can be limited, the exterior and gardens are consistently appreciated.

"Lovely historical old church in the heart of Busselton…
Nicely maintained gardens and property, this church is a terrific location for ceremonies and gatherings."

PhotoCoffee Warnbro - Café Mead

"Very lucky if you can see inside the church. Very cossy and friendly"

Ivon Robson

"Visited it from the outside. Lovely area and nice peaceful place."

Daisy Rajan

What People Like

Historic architecture
Peaceful gardens
Pioneer graveyard

What People Dislike

Limited interior access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St. Mary's Anglican Church is centrally located in Busselton at the corner of Queen Street and Peel Terrace. It's easily accessible by car and often visible from the main roads. Parking is generally available nearby. Instagram

While specific bus routes may vary, Busselton has local bus services. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information on routes that pass near the church's central location. :bus:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general entry to view the exterior and grounds of St. Mary's Anglican Church is free. Access inside the church may be limited, especially during services. :ticket:

As an active place of worship, there are no set public opening hours for the interior. The grounds and exterior are generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to check for any scheduled events if you wish to see inside. :clock:

Yes, St. Mary's is a popular location for ceremonies like weddings and blessings. Contacting the parish directly would be the best way to inquire about booking and availability. :wedding:

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can admire the historic limestone and jarrah architecture, explore the well-maintained gardens, and visit the pioneer graveyard with inscriptions from early settlers, including the Bussell family. Reddit

Access inside the church may be limited, especially during services. Visitors often report being lucky to see the interior, which is described as cozy and friendly. Reddit

The graveyard itself serves as a historical marker, with inscriptions on the tombstones. The architecture and the very existence of the church as WA's oldest stone church tell a significant historical story. Reddit

The historic architecture, gardens, and graveyard offer picturesque opportunities for photography, especially for those interested in historical or architectural subjects. :camera:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

St. Mary's itself is not a dining venue, but it has hosted special events like Christmas lunches. The church is located in Busselton, which offers numerous cafes and restaurants nearby. :forkandknife:

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior of the limestone church, the surrounding gardens, and the historic tombstones in the graveyard are all excellent subjects for photography. Instagram

Photography inside the church may be subject to permission, especially during services. It's always best to be discreet and respectful if you wish to take photos inside. :iphone:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St. Mary's Anglican Church offers a gentle introduction to local history for families. The graveyard can be an engaging, albeit somber, place for children to learn about past generations, especially if they can read the inscriptions. The gardens provide a safe and pleasant space for kids to wander and explore under supervision. While access inside the church might be limited, the exterior architecture and the story of its construction can spark curiosity. Consider visiting during a time when services are not in session to allow for more freedom of movement on the grounds. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by history and architecture, St. Mary's is a must-visit. As Western Australia's oldest stone church, its construction from limestone and jarrah is a prime example of colonial-era building techniques. Take ample time to examine the exterior details and imagine the lives of the early settlers. The pioneer graveyard, with its original tombstones, including those of the influential Bussell family, offers a direct connection to the region's founding figures. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace

St. Mary's provides a tranquil sanctuary for solo travelers. The peaceful gardens and the quiet atmosphere of the graveyard offer a perfect setting for reflection and a break from the usual tourist hustle. You can spend time appreciating the historical significance of the site at your own pace, soaking in the serene environment. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Time: The History of St. Mary's

St. Mary's Anglican Church in Busselton holds the distinction of being the oldest stone church in Western Australia. Its construction began in 1844, with the church being consecrated in 1848. Built by the early European settlers, the structure is a remarkable example of their craftsmanship, utilizing local limestone and jarrah timber, topped with a sheoak shingle roof. This historical building stands as a tangible link to the foundational years of the Busselton community and the broader Swan River Colony.

The church is situated on land that has been significant since the early days of settlement. The graveyard adjacent to the church is particularly noteworthy, containing many original tombstones of the pioneering families who shaped the region. Among these are the graves of the Bussell family, one of the first European families to settle in the area, making the site a place of deep historical resonance. Visiting the graveyard offers a unique opportunity to connect with the past and understand the lives of those who established Busselton. Reddit

Beyond its historical significance, St. Mary's continues to serve as an active place of worship for the local Anglican community. This dual role as a historical monument and a living church adds a unique dimension to its character. While visitors can admire its exterior and grounds, opportunities to enter the church may be limited, particularly during services. The church and its grounds have also been the subject of revitalization efforts, ensuring its preservation for future generations, with local schools even contributing to garden makeovers. Instagram

Experiencing the Tranquility of St. Mary's

Visitors often describe St. Mary's Anglican Church and its surroundings as a peaceful and serene place. The well-maintained gardens provide a tranquil setting for quiet contemplation or a leisurely stroll. The combination of historical architecture and natural beauty creates a calming atmosphere, making it a welcome respite for those seeking a moment of calm amidst their travels. Reddit

While the interior of the church may not always be accessible, the exterior itself is a significant attraction. The historic limestone walls and the charming architectural details are a photographer's delight. The graveyard, with its weathered tombstones, adds a layer of historical depth and quiet solemnity to the experience. Many visitors find that simply walking the grounds and absorbing the atmosphere is a rewarding part of their visit. Instagram

St. Mary's also occasionally hosts community events, such as pet blessings or festive gatherings, which can offer a glimpse into the vibrant life of the church and its connection to the local community. These events, while not a daily occurrence, can add a special dimension to a visit, showcasing the church as a dynamic hub rather than just a historical relic. TikTok

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