St. Mary's Church Petworth
A historic 13th-century church in Petworth, notable for its striking red brick bell tower and rich interior art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
St. Mary's Church Petworth
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 13th-century church in Petworth, notable for its striking red brick bell tower and rich interior art.
"Beautiful historic church with an impressive function organ and really nice people."
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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Red Brick Bell Tower
Exterior
A striking 1827 addition, this red brick tower offers a unique architectural contrast to the older stone.
Dawtrey Tomb
Chapel
Admire the intricately painted Caen stone effigy, a significant historical and artistic feature within the church.
Painted Ceiling
Interior
Look up to discover a wonderfully painted ceiling, adding to the church's rich interior beauty.
Stained Glass Windows
Interior
Experience the vibrant colors and storytelling within the impressive stained glass windows.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
Quiet Reflection
It's a place of worship, so maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor.
Nearby Shopping
Explore shops like Garden Gate opposite the church for unique finds.
Tips
from all over the internet
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.
Quiet Reflection
It's a place of worship, so maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor.
Nearby Shopping
Explore shops like Garden Gate opposite the church for unique finds.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 ⛪ 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🛍️ 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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🏛️ History Buffs
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.
🎶 Music Lovers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
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.
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.
Community and Events
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.
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.
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