St. Mary's Church, Church Street, Petworth - Image 1
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St. Mary's Church Petworth

4.6
·53 reviews·, United Kingdom

A historic 13th-century church in Petworth, notable for its striking red brick bell tower and rich interior art.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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St. Mary's Church, Church Street, Petworth - Image 1

St. Mary's Church Petworth

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic 13th-century church in Petworth, notable for its striking red brick bell tower and rich interior art.

4.6
(53 reviews)

"Beautiful historic church with an impressive function organ and really nice people."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Event Schedules

Confirm if there are any events before visiting to avoid disappointment.

Admire the Architecture

Don't miss the unique red brick tower and historic interior details.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Red Brick Bell Tower

Red Brick Bell Tower

Exterior

A striking 1827 addition, this red brick tower offers a unique architectural contrast to the older stone.

Instagram
Dawtrey Tomb

Dawtrey Tomb

Chapel

Admire the intricately painted Caen stone effigy, a significant historical and artistic feature within the church.

Reddit
Painted Ceiling

Painted Ceiling

Interior

Look up to discover a wonderfully painted ceiling, adding to the church's rich interior beauty.

Reddit
Stained Glass Windows

Stained Glass Windows

Interior

Experience the vibrant colors and storytelling within the impressive stained glass windows.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

Check for local events like concerts or festivals before you go, as these can affect access and crowds. Some visitors have reported being turned away due to private events, so confirming opening times is wise. Instagram+1

Respectful Exploration

St. Mary's is an active place of worship and hosts events. Be mindful of services or private functions. While generally welcoming, some visitors have encountered strictness during events. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
During a concert
Why
Experience live music
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🔥 Fridays at St. Mary’s Volleyball = COMPETITION DAY! 🔥 Today’s challenge: Best “KILL” cheer 💥🏐 Which team crushed it?! 👀👇 Vote for your FAVORITE!!! 🗳️ #StMarysVolleyball #CompetitionDay #KillCheer #VolleyballLife #FYP
@chantaleriddle
13.8K likes • 132.1K views

Check Event Schedules

Confirm if there are any events before visiting to avoid disappointment. Instagram+1

Admire the Architecture

Don't miss the unique red brick tower and historic interior details. InstagramReddit

St Mary’s was built in 1895 in North Brookfield NY. It was an important part of my ancestor’s lives for generations so when it was slatted for demolition to make a parking lot, I decided to buy it, move it half a mile and save it. Two years later, after soooo much work (and a heck of a lot of $$$!) its ready for another 130 of life and I’ve never regretted it for a second ❤️ #restoration #beforean...
@megbarnes22
1.3K likes • 10K views
Now we are all safely home, here is a clip from our concert in Angouleme. We are singing Sicut Cervas by Palestrina. We will be performing this and other works on Sept 13th in St Marys Church Petworth https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/leconfieldsingers
theleconfieldsingers
18 likes • 218 views

Quiet Reflection

It's a place of worship, so maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor. Reddit

Nearby Shopping

Explore shops like Garden Gate opposite the church for unique finds. Instagram

Experience an unforgettable evening of world-class classical music with the Wigmore Soloists! Friday 18 July - 7.30pm - St Mary’s Church, Petworth See link in bio and scroll for details… #petworthfestival #petworthuk #whatsonsussex #wigmoresoloists #classicalmusic
petworthfestival
19 likes • 463 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Event Schedules

Confirm if there are any events before visiting to avoid disappointment. Instagram+1

Admire the Architecture

Don't miss the unique red brick tower and historic interior details. InstagramReddit

Quiet Reflection

It's a place of worship, so maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor. Reddit

Nearby Shopping

Explore shops like Garden Gate opposite the church for unique finds. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(53 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise St. Mary's Church Petworth for its beautiful historic architecture, including the unique red brick tower and impressive interior features like the Dawtrey tomb and painted ceiling. It's considered a perfect wedding venue and a welcoming place. However, some have experienced unwelcoming interactions when events were taking place, suggesting a need for clear communication regarding access during functions.

"Historic church dating back to the 13th century, with an unusual appearance courtesy of the later red brick bell tower completed in 1827. Inside, there's the painted Caen stone Dawtrey tomb in the chapel, a fine organ, impressive stained glass windows and a wonderful painted ceiling."

Andrew Thomas

"Perfect place to get married"

Peter pritchard

"Beautiful historic church with an impressive function organ and really nice people."

Bruno Vianna

What People Like

Historic architecture
Painted tomb and ceiling
Beautiful stained glass

What People Dislike

Strictness during events

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St. Mary's Church is located in the heart of Petworth. If arriving by car, there is parking available nearby. For those using public transport, local bus services connect Petworth to surrounding towns. The church is easily walkable from the town center. Instagram

Yes, Petworth is served by local bus routes. You can check timetables for services connecting to Petworth from larger towns like Chichester or Horsham. The church is a short walk from the main bus stops in the town. Instagram

There are several public car parks within walking distance of St. Mary's Church in Petworth. It's advisable to check local signage for the nearest and most convenient options. Instagram

Yes, St. Mary's Church Petworth can be a lovely part of a day trip from London. While it doesn't offer punting, it provides a quaint English town experience with historical charm, fitting the desire for a 'Shire-like' feel. InstagramReddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The church is often open for visitors, but hours can vary, especially if there are private events or services. It's recommended to check for any specific event schedules or contact the church directly before your visit to avoid disappointment. Instagram+1

Generally, there is no admission fee to enter St. Mary's Church Petworth. However, donations are always welcome to help with the upkeep of this historic building. Reddit

Yes, St. Mary's Church Petworth is an active place of worship. You are welcome to attend regular services. Check the church's official schedule for times and details. Reddit

For specific events like concerts, booking tickets in advance is usually recommended. Websites like Ticketsource are often used for booking, as seen for performances by groups like the Leconfield Singers. Instagram+1

If a private event is taking place, access may be restricted. Some visitors have reported being politely asked to leave. It's best to check the church's schedule beforehand to ensure you can visit freely. Reddit

🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find the historic painted Caen stone Dawtrey tomb, a fine organ, impressive stained glass windows, and a beautifully painted ceiling. The church's architecture and historical artifacts are its main draws. Reddit

Yes, St. Mary's Church Petworth offers many photographic opportunities, from its unique red brick tower to the detailed interior features like stained glass and the painted ceiling. InstagramReddit

St. Mary's Church Petworth is described as a perfect place to get married, with a beautiful historic setting and a welcoming atmosphere. Inquiries about weddings should be directed to the church office. Reddit

The church has a history dating back to the 13th century, with significant later additions like the 1827 red brick bell tower. It holds historical artifacts such as the Dawtrey tomb. Reddit

Visitors often describe the atmosphere as peaceful and beautiful, especially when there isn't an event. It's a place for quiet reflection and appreciating historical and artistic elements. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Nearby Attractions

Petworth itself is a charming town with independent shops, art galleries, and Petworth House and Park, a National Trust property. Shops like Garden Gate are located opposite the church. InstagramReddit

Petworth is known for its quaint atmosphere, and you can likely find charming tearooms offering cream teas, fitting the desire for a traditional English experience. Reddit

Yes, Petworth House and Park is a major attraction and is located very close to St. Mary's Church, making it easy to combine a visit to both. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While St. Mary's Church Petworth is a historical site, its primary appeal for families might be its role as a quiet, interesting stop during a day out in Petworth. The unique red brick tower can be a visual point of interest for children, and the stained glass windows offer colorful sights. Instagram

It's important to manage expectations: it's a place of worship, so the focus will be on quiet observation rather than active play. However, if combined with a visit to the nearby Petworth House and Park, which offers more space for children to explore, St. Mary's can be a brief, enriching part of a family's itinerary. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, St. Mary's Church Petworth is a treasure trove. Its 13th-century origins provide a deep historical foundation, while the 1827 red brick bell tower offers a fascinating study in architectural evolution. The Dawtrey tomb, with its painted Caen stone effigy, is a significant artifact, offering insights into historical funerary art and the prominent families of the region. Reddit

Exploring the stained glass windows and the painted ceiling allows for an appreciation of the church's artistic heritage across different periods. The church's continuous use as a place of worship also speaks to its enduring significance in the community's history. Reddit

🎶 Music Lovers

St. Mary's Church Petworth is a celebrated venue for musical performances, particularly classical music. Its acoustics are ideal for concerts, and it has hosted renowned ensembles like the Wigmore Soloists and local groups such as the Leconfield Singers. Instagram+1

Attending a concert here offers a chance to experience the church's grandeur while enjoying world-class music. The presence of a fine organ also suggests a history of musical engagement within the church itself. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended for these popular events. InstagramReddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Significance

St. Mary's Church Petworth boasts a fascinating architectural journey, with its origins tracing back to the 13th century. The most visually striking element for many visitors is the red brick bell tower, a later addition completed in 1827. This distinctive tower provides a unique contrast to the older stone structure, making the church stand out architecturally. InstagramReddit

Inside, the church continues to impress with its historical and artistic elements. Key features include the Caen stone Dawtrey tomb, renowned for its painted effigy, and a fine organ that has likely been a centerpiece for many musical performances. The stained glass windows are also a significant draw, bathing the interior in colorful light and telling stories through their artistry. Reddit

Beyond these prominent features, the painted ceiling adds another layer of beauty and historical depth to the church's interior. These elements combined create a rich tapestry of history, art, and architecture, making St. Mary's Church Petworth a compelling site for exploration. Reddit

Community and Events

St. Mary's Church Petworth is more than just a historical building; it's an active community hub. It serves as a place of worship and is frequently the venue for various events, including concerts and recitals. Visitors have shared experiences of attending performances by groups like the Leconfield Singers and the Wigmore Soloists, highlighting the church's role in the local arts scene. Instagram+1

These events offer a unique opportunity to experience the church's acoustics and atmosphere in a lively setting. However, it's crucial for potential visitors to be aware that these events can sometimes lead to restricted access for general sightseeing. Some visitors have noted being turned away due to private functions, emphasizing the importance of checking the church's schedule in advance. Reddit

The church is also described as a 'perfect place to get married' and has 'really nice people,' suggesting a welcoming and community-oriented spirit. This blend of historical significance and active community life makes St. Mary's Church Petworth a dynamic destination. Reddit