
St Mary's Church Broadwater
A Domesday Book-listed church blending ancient architecture with a vibrant, community-focused parish near Worthing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Playgroup buzz

St Mary's Church Broadwater
Best Time
Playgroup buzz
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Domesday Book-listed church blending ancient architecture with a vibrant, community-focused parish near Worthing.
"A beautiful building and an amazing community, steeped in over 1000 years of history. "

🤝 Engage with Community
Don't hesitate to introduce yourself; the community is active and welcoming at events.
👶 Family Playgroup Fun
Bring little ones for a fun Wednesday playgroup with a great atmosphere.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Architecture
The Church Building
Explore centuries of history within this beautiful, Domesday Book-listed building. A true architectural gem.

Vibrant Community Hub
Parish Hall & Grounds
Experience a welcoming atmosphere with regular playgroups and community events. Great for families!

Picturesque Village Setting
Broadwater Village
Nestled near Worthing and the South Downs, enjoy the charm of Broadwater village.
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Planning Your Visit
Community Spirit & Welcome
Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤝 Engage with Community
Don't hesitate to introduce yourself; the community is active and welcoming at events.
👶 Family Playgroup Fun
Bring little ones for a fun Wednesday playgroup with a great atmosphere.
📜 Appreciate the History
Take time to admire the ancient architecture, parts of which are over 1000 years old.
Where in the whole UK should I live with 2 young kids and no car?
Tips
from all over the internet
🤝 Engage with Community
Don't hesitate to introduce yourself; the community is active and welcoming at events.
👶 Family Playgroup Fun
Bring little ones for a fun Wednesday playgroup with a great atmosphere.
📜 Appreciate the History
Take time to admire the ancient architecture, parts of which are over 1000 years old.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
St. Mary's Church Broadwater is praised for its deep historical roots and vibrant community spirit, particularly through its social events and family-friendly playgroup. While the building itself is admired, some visitors have experienced a less immediate sense of welcome during Sunday services, though the overall community engagement is highly valued.
"Went too the church in the park Sunday. Left disappointed. It’s hard enough to attend a new church on your own,. Got there not 1 person gave me a friendly smile or a simple hello. Regular congregation, we’re singing from hymn sheets but not one person thought to give me one. So i could not participate in the worship without knowing the hymns. I sat there listening to the sermon which was a good word from god but I couldn’t help feeling the word was being contradicted by the actions of every one around me. Shame because looking around there was obviously a prescence from the lord but I left feeling no love and wishing I had gone else where. Sadly"
tim owen
"This is not only an amazing church building but an amazing community too. The church itself is listed in the doomsday book so parts of it are over 1000 years old. Obviously it has been modernised over the years and the team of ministers, volunteers and people that work in the parish are so dedicated to the community. The vicar is a real community leader and really enthusiastic about the local community and very approachable too. The church has lots of social activities that go on in the local community too.
This is everything a church be. A beautiful building and an amazing community.
The church is situated in the picturesque Broadwater village just North of Worthing and just next to the South downs national park."
Andy Cooper
"Wonderful people. Great venue"
Jonathan Baggaley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Mary's Church is located in the picturesque Broadwater village, just north of Worthing and adjacent to the South Downs National Park. Visitors can typically reach Broadwater by car, with local bus services also connecting to Worthing. Parking availability may vary, especially on Sundays.
Parking information can be limited. It's advisable to check local signage or inquire with the church office beforehand, especially if attending a Sunday service or a large event.
Yes, Broadwater is accessible by public transport, with bus routes serving the Worthing area. Check local bus timetables for the most up-to-date information on routes and schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
St. Mary's Church is a place of worship, and typically there is no admission fee for general visits. Donations are often welcome to support the upkeep of the historic building and its community activities.
As a working church, St. Mary's is generally open during daylight hours for private prayer and visits. However, specific opening times may vary due to services, events, or maintenance. It's best to check with the church office for precise hours.
Absolutely! St. Mary's is a thriving church with regular services. Visitors are welcome to attend Sunday services and other worship events.
For regular services, booking is usually not required. However, for special events or community gatherings, it's wise to check the church's website or social media for any booking requirements.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
The church is described as having a beautiful building and an amazing community. While some visitors have noted a reserved initial reception, others highlight a strong community spirit and a welcoming atmosphere, especially during events and playgroups.
Yes, St. Mary's hosts a popular Wednesday playgroup that is very well-loved by children and parents alike, contributing to a nice community atmosphere.
St. Mary's Church is historically significant as it is listed in the Domesday Book, meaning parts of it are over 1000 years old. It has undergone modernization over the years while retaining its ancient roots.
Information on accessibility can vary for historic buildings. It's recommended to contact the church directly to inquire about specific accessibility features for those with mobility needs.
Sunday services typically include worship with hymns and a sermon. While the sermon is often praised, some visitors have felt a lack of immediate engagement from the congregation.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
St. Mary's Church itself may not have dedicated dining facilities, but it is situated in Broadwater village, which likely offers local cafes and pubs. The church does host community events that may include refreshments.
For general visits, bringing your own food might be acceptable in designated areas, but it's best to avoid eating inside the main church sanctuary. If attending a specific event, check their policies.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary in churches. It's generally respectful to avoid flash photography and to be mindful of services or private moments. If unsure, it's always best to ask permission.
The ancient architecture of the church building itself offers many photographic opportunities. The surrounding Broadwater village and its proximity to the South Downs also provide scenic backdrops.
For Different Travelers
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Thousand Years of History
While parts of the church are ancient, it has also been modernized over the years to serve contemporary needs. This blend of old and new is characteristic of many historic churches that strive to remain relevant to their communities. The dedication of the ministers, volunteers, and parish members ensures that the church continues to be a vibrant center for worship and community engagement. This ongoing life within ancient walls is a key part of its appeal.
Community and Connection
For families, the Wednesday playgroup is a standout feature, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere where children and parents alike can connect. This initiative is a prime example of how the church actively engages with the local community, making it more than just a place of worship but a genuine hub for social interaction. While some visitors have noted a reserved initial reception during services, the consistent praise for community events and the dedicated team suggests that finding your place within the community is very achievable through active participation.






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