St Mary's Church Nottingham
A magnificent Gothic Revival church in Nottingham's Lace Market, rich with history and featuring stunning stained glass windows.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Quiet exploration
St Mary's Church Nottingham
Best Time
Quiet exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent Gothic Revival church in Nottingham's Lace Market, rich with history and featuring stunning stained glass windows.
"The most beautiful church in Nottingham, and a magnificent building that dates back to the early 15th century."
Weekday Serenity :pray:
Visit on a weekday for a peaceful experience, often having the church to yourself for quiet contemplation.
Admire the Stained Glass :art:
Don't miss the massive stained glass windows, each featuring a different saint. They are truly awe-inspiring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great East Window
East End
A Victorian stained glass masterpiece by John Hardman, installed in 1863, depicting various saints in 36 vibrant lights.
Gothic Revival Architecture
Entire Church
Admire the intricate details of this imposing medieval building, a prime example of Gothic Revival style.
Private Chapel
Secluded Area
Discover a tranquil and beautiful secluded chapel, offering a peaceful space for reflection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Understanding Its Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Weekday Serenity :pray:
Visit on a weekday for a peaceful experience, often having the church to yourself for quiet contemplation.
Admire the Stained Glass :art:
Don't miss the massive stained glass windows, each featuring a different saint. They are truly awe-inspiring.
Help with this photo.
FREE FRIDAY - Our church finally consecrated after 100 years
Check for Events :calendar:
The church hosts various events like craft fairs, so check their schedule before visiting.
Restrooms Available :toilet:
Good to know that public restrooms are available for visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
Weekday Serenity :pray:
Visit on a weekday for a peaceful experience, often having the church to yourself for quiet contemplation.
Admire the Stained Glass :art:
Don't miss the massive stained glass windows, each featuring a different saint. They are truly awe-inspiring.
Check for Events :calendar:
The church hosts various events like craft fairs, so check their schedule before visiting.
Restrooms Available :toilet:
Good to know that public restrooms are available for visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
St. Mary's Church is widely praised as a beautiful and historically significant landmark in Nottingham. Visitors appreciate its impressive Gothic Revival architecture, particularly the stunning stained glass windows, and the peaceful atmosphere it offers for reflection. While some find the interior less spectacular than other cathedrals, its historical value and well-maintained exterior make it a worthwhile visit.
"St Mary’s, Nottingham, in the Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham
East Window
The Great East window is the oldest Victorian stained glass window in St Mary’s made by John Hardman of Birmingham and installed in 1863 at a cost of £500 as a memorial to Prince Albert the Prince Consort. This is colourful window has 36 lights, much of it hidden by the reredos."
Mazhar Abbas
"A simply wonderful church in the city centre. Full of history and a lovely place to find a quiet spot to pray. We arrived at the end of the main Sunday service, sadly, but had a delightful chat with the new vicar. My family has long association with the church."
Charles Wright
"Visited for Craft and Flea ... beautifully curated event .. really enjoyed it!"
Helen Randall
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Mary's Church is located in the Lace Market area of Nottingham city centre. It's easily accessible by public transport, with many bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, there are several car parks in the vicinity, though they can be pricey.
While the church is a historic building, efforts have been made to improve accessibility. It's advisable to contact the church directly for the most up-to-date information on wheelchair access to specific areas.
Numerous bus routes serve the Lace Market area, bringing you within easy walking distance of St. Mary's. The nearest train station is Nottingham Station, which is a short taxi or bus ride away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
St. Mary's Church is generally open to the public for visits, and typically does not require an admission fee for general exploration. Donations are always welcome to help with upkeep.
Opening hours can vary, especially around services and events. It's best to check the official St. Mary's Church Nottingham website or contact them directly for the most current visiting times.
Yes, St. Mary's Church holds regular services. Visitors are welcome to attend, and it can be a wonderful way to experience the church's spiritual atmosphere.
Typically, there is no strict entry fee for visiting St. Mary's Church for sightseeing. However, donations are greatly appreciated to support the maintenance of this historic building.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is usually permitted inside St. Mary's Church for personal use, but it's always polite to be discreet and avoid flash photography, especially during services.
The Great East Window and the intricate architectural details of the Gothic Revival style offer fantastic photo opportunities. The exterior also presents a grand facade.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, St. Mary's is located in the vibrant Lace Market area, which has numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants offering a variety of dining options.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday when it's quieter, allowing children to explore without feeling rushed. The availability of restrooms is also a practical plus for families. While not a playground, the grandeur of the building itself can be an engaging experience for younger visitors.
⛪️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts
Take your time to explore the different sections of the church, including the secluded private chapel. Consider researching the church's history beforehand to enhance your understanding and appreciation of its significance to Nottingham. Weekday visits are ideal for an undisturbed exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: A Gothic Revival Gem
Key features include its imposing facade and the detailed stonework. The interior, while perhaps not as overwhelmingly spectacular as some larger cathedrals, is nonetheless impressive. The stained glass windows are a particular highlight, with the Great East Window being a notable Victorian addition. The sheer scale of the church can make visitors feel small and in awe of the human effort and dedication involved in its creation.
For those interested in history and architecture, St. Mary's offers a rich visual experience. The well-maintained exterior and the thoughtful interior design provide ample opportunity for appreciation. It stands as a testament to centuries of craftsmanship and devotion.
The East Window: A Victorian Masterpiece
This colourful window is comprised of 36 lights, each likely depicting a different saint or biblical scene. While much of its detail is partially obscured by the reredos (an ornamental screen behind an altar), its presence is still impactful. The craftsmanship and artistry involved in its creation are evident, adding a vibrant and historical dimension to the church's interior.
Visitors often find the stained glass windows to be a captivating element of their visit. The sheer number of saints depicted and the quality of the artistry make it a focal point for admiration and photography, contributing to the overall awe-inspiring atmosphere of the church.
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