St Martin's Church Bowness
A historic sanctuary in Bowness-on-Windermere, featuring ancient stained glass and a peaceful atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
St Martin's Church Bowness
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic sanctuary in Bowness-on-Windermere, featuring ancient stained glass and a peaceful atmosphere.
"A beautiful and peaceful place right in the heart of Windermere, offering a sense of calm and timelessness."
Free Entry, Donations Welcome
Step inside this historic gem for free. Donations are appreciated to help with upkeep. :heart:
Quiet Reflection Spot
Escape the Bowness bustle for a peaceful moment of quiet contemplation or prayer. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stunning Stained Glass
Marvel at ancient stained-glass windows that bathe the interior in vibrant, colorful light.
Historic Architecture
Explore a building with roots stretching back to the 13th century, showcasing medieval stonework and Victorian restorations.
Peaceful Sanctuary
Find a quiet moment of reflection amidst the charming churchyard and tranquil interior.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the Crowds
A Glimpse of History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry, Donations Welcome
Step inside this historic gem for free. Donations are appreciated to help with upkeep. :heart:
Quiet Reflection Spot
Escape the Bowness bustle for a peaceful moment of quiet contemplation or prayer. :pray:
Admire Ancient Glass
Don't miss the ancient stained glass, some of the oldest in England! :sparkles:
Wedding Venue Charm
See where happy couples tie the knot; it's a popular and beautiful wedding spot. :wedding:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry, Donations Welcome
Step inside this historic gem for free. Donations are appreciated to help with upkeep. :heart:
Quiet Reflection Spot
Escape the Bowness bustle for a peaceful moment of quiet contemplation or prayer. :pray:
Admire Ancient Glass
Don't miss the ancient stained glass, some of the oldest in England! :sparkles:
Wedding Venue Charm
See where happy couples tie the knot; it's a popular and beautiful wedding spot. :wedding:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St. Martin's Church for its beautiful and peaceful atmosphere, highlighting the stunning stained-glass windows and rich historical details. It's seen as a serene sanctuary offering a welcome escape from the bustle of Bowness. While generally well-loved, some may find it a brief visit if not particularly interested in historical churches.
"St Martin’s Church is a beautiful and peaceful place right in the heart of Windermere. The moment you step inside, you’re welcomed by a sense of calm and timelessness. The stained-glass windows are stunning, filling the church with colour and light, and the historic details in the stonework and woodwork are full of character.
What I loved most was the atmosphere — it’s not just a building, it feels like a sanctuary. Whether you’re visiting to admire its history, take a quiet moment of reflection, or simply escape the busyness of the town, it’s the perfect place. The churchyard is also very charming, with old headstones and a peaceful setting that adds to the sense of history.
A truly lovely spot in Windermere that’s well worth visiting."
M Amin
"Nice church situated next to the village center. It's free to visit, donations are welcome. The lake and center are just a few minutes walking distance. Nice to find church that is open even during weekdays and to go in for some quiet and thinking time or prayer. You can buy books inside."
Daniel AM
"Charming historic church that provides a peaceful retreat from the bustle of the streets outside.
The building dates back to the 15th century, and was extensively restored in the late 1800s. Inside, the wall paintings are particularly impressive, complementing the stained glass windows and screen.
There's an informative guidebook to point out the interesting features as you walk around, and friendly people on hand to answer any questions."
Andrew Thomas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Martin's Church is conveniently located right in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere, just a few minutes' walk from the lake and the village center. It's easily accessible on foot if you're already exploring Bowness.
While the church itself doesn't have dedicated parking, there are several public car parks available in Bowness-on-Windermere, which are a short walk away. Consider parking at the Glebe or Braithwaite Fold car parks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The church is typically open during weekdays, offering a peaceful retreat. It's a good idea to check local listings or call ahead if you're planning a visit outside of standard hours, though it's often open for quiet reflection.
No, there is no entrance fee to visit St. Martin's Church. It's free to enter and explore its historic beauty. Donations are gratefully accepted to help maintain the church.
Photography is generally permitted inside St. Martin's Church for personal use, allowing you to capture its beautiful architecture and stained glass. Be mindful of any services or quiet periods.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find impressive wall paintings, ancient stained glass windows, and intricate woodwork. An informative guidebook is available to highlight the church's interesting features and history.
Absolutely. Many visitors find St. Martin's Church to be a peaceful sanctuary, perfect for quiet reflection, prayer, or simply escaping the town's hustle and bustle.
The church dates back to at least 1202, with parts of the building added in 1483. It boasts some of the oldest surviving stained glass in England and has been shaped by Victorian restoration.
Yes, the churchyard is described as charming and peaceful, with old headstones adding to the sense of history and providing a lovely setting for a quiet stroll.
📸 📸 Photography
The stained-glass windows are a highlight for photography, especially when the sun shines through them. The historic architecture and the peaceful churchyard also offer great shots. 
Late afternoon can be ideal for capturing the light through the stained-glass windows. Weekday mornings offer fewer people for unobstructed shots of the exterior and interior.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great opportunity to introduce them to local history in a calm setting. Remember to encourage quiet voices and respectful behavior inside. The churchyard can be a nice spot for a brief, peaceful wander. ❤️ Couples & Romantic Visits
+1 Couples can appreciate the timeless beauty and romantic atmosphere of the church and its surroundings. Visiting during a quieter time allows for a more intimate experience, perhaps enjoying the serene ambiance together before or after exploring the Lake District. The charming churchyard also offers a lovely backdrop for quiet moments.🚶 Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The History of St. Martin's
Visitors can explore a building that has witnessed countless generations, offering a tangible connection to the past. The church is particularly renowned for housing some of the oldest surviving pieces of stained glass in England, a truly remarkable feature that draws history enthusiasts and art lovers alike. The interior is adorned with impressive wall paintings and intricate woodwork, complementing the ancient stained glass. An informative guidebook is available to help visitors appreciate the various historical elements and architectural details.
Beyond its historical significance, St. Martin's also serves as a popular venue for weddings, adding a touch of modern joy to its ancient stones.
+1 This blend of deep history and ongoing community use makes St. Martin's Church a unique and cherished landmark in Bowness-on-Windermere.Experiencing the Tranquility of St. Martin's
The visual beauty of the church, particularly the way sunlight filters through its ancient stained-glass windows, enhances the tranquil experience.
The play of light and color creates a mesmerizing effect, adding to the spiritual and contemplative ambiance. The charming churchyard further contributes to the peaceful atmosphere. Its old headstones and serene setting provide a lovely space for a quiet walk, allowing visitors to connect with the history and tranquility of the location.
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