St Mary and All Saints Church Fotheringhay
A historic church holding the tomb of Mary, Queen of Scots, and deep ties to Richard III and the House of York.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peaceful reflection
St Mary and All Saints Church Fotheringhay
Best Time
Peaceful reflection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic church holding the tomb of Mary, Queen of Scots, and deep ties to Richard III and the House of York.
"A picturesque church, so wonderful and peaceful, with so much amazing history."
Chat with the Warden! 🗣️
Engage with the knowledgeable church warden for fascinating historical insights you won't find elsewhere.
Explore the Village 🚶♀️
Combine your church visit with a stroll through the tranquil Fotheringhay village and enjoy local walks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mary, Queen of Scots' Tomb
Choir
The poignant final resting place of Mary, Queen of Scots, a site of immense historical significance and reflection.
Richard III's Family Mausoleum
Choir
Discover the resting place of Richard III's father and brother, a testament to the church's strong Yorkist connections.
The Grand Yorkist Church
Nave
Admire the impressive architecture of this 15th-century church, a symbol of the powerful House of York.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Uncover Centuries of Royal History
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Chat with the Warden! 🗣️
Engage with the knowledgeable church warden for fascinating historical insights you won't find elsewhere.
Explore the Village 🚶♀️
Combine your church visit with a stroll through the tranquil Fotheringhay village and enjoy local walks.
Wheelchair Friendly Access ♿
The church offers a welcoming and accessible entrance for all visitors.
Sunrise Views 🌅
Catch breathtaking sunrise vistas over the church for stunning photography opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
Chat with the Warden! 🗣️
Engage with the knowledgeable church warden for fascinating historical insights you won't find elsewhere.
Explore the Village 🚶♀️
Combine your church visit with a stroll through the tranquil Fotheringhay village and enjoy local walks.
Wheelchair Friendly Access ♿
The church offers a welcoming and accessible entrance for all visitors.
Sunrise Views 🌅
Catch breathtaking sunrise vistas over the church for stunning photography opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the profound history and peaceful atmosphere of St. Mary and All Saints Church, Fotheringhay. Many highlight the invaluable insights gained from speaking with the knowledgeable church warden, who brings the stories of Mary, Queen of Scots, and Richard III to life. The church's tranquil setting and accessible features are also frequently praised, making it a highly recommended historical site.
"Visited yesterday with my son and parents, it is a picturesque church, so wonderful and peaceful, with so much amazing history.
Many thanks to the very knowledgeable church warden, Bill, who informed us of many amazing facts about Richard II, his parents and uncle, Lady Jane Grey, Mary Queen of Scots, the size of the church, what happened to it, who built it and also about mason marks. We would never have known any of this had he not taken the time to talk to us - even though he was supposed to be locking up for the day. We appreciate the time you took to talk to us, thank you so much. We will be back again, it is a fantastic church."
Jenna Buttery
"Lovely church with an interesting history.
Information panels inside about church & Castle.
Brightly painted pulpit.
Wheelchair friendly entrance."
Samantha Kettle
"The most stunning church, set in a tranquil village full of history. Lovely local walks. #WhiteRose #HouseofYork"
Michael Asplen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located in the village of Fotheringhay, near Peterborough. Driving is the most common way to reach it, with parking available nearby. Public transport options are limited, so checking bus routes in advance is recommended if not driving.
Yes, St. Mary and All Saints Church is prominently situated in the picturesque village of Fotheringhay, often visible from a distance due to its elevated position.
Absolutely! The village of Fotheringhay offers lovely local walks, and the church itself is situated above the river, providing scenic views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The church is typically open daily from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm, allowing ample time for exploration.
While there isn't usually an admission fee, donations are greatly appreciated to help maintain this historic site.
Generally, the church is locked outside of its stated opening hours. It's best to plan your visit within these times to ensure access.
Yes, the church features a wheelchair-friendly entrance, making it accessible for most visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
This church is deeply significant, being the burial site of Mary, Queen of Scots, and holding strong ties to Richard III and the House of York, including his father and brother's mausoleum.
Inside, you'll find information panels detailing the church and castle history, a brightly painted pulpit, and the tombs of historical figures.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always respectful to be mindful of ongoing services or other visitors.
While formal tours might not always be scheduled, the church warden is often available to share incredible historical facts and stories.
Visitors consistently describe the atmosphere as wonderful, peaceful, and tranquil, offering a profound sense of history.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings, especially during sunrise, offer beautiful light and fewer crowds for photography. The golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide stunning shots.
The exterior of the church, particularly with the surrounding landscape, and the interior details like the pulpit and historical tombs are popular subjects.
Drone photography is possible, as seen in some social media content, but always ensure you comply with local regulations and privacy considerations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the architectural aspects and the visual elements like the brightly painted pulpit to keep younger visitors engaged. The surrounding village also provides space for children to explore and burn off energy after a visit to the church. Making it a part of a larger day out with a picnic can enhance the family experience.
🏛️ History Buffs & Genealogy Enthusiasts
+1Don't miss the information panels inside, which provide detailed historical context. Engaging with the church warden is also a must, as they can offer anecdotal details and deeper insights that bring the history to life. Exploring the village and its surroundings can further enhance your understanding of the historical landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Royal Connections and Historical Significance
The church also boasts strong ties to the House of York and Richard III. It is traditionally believed to be where Richard III was baptized. More significantly, Richard III had his father, Richard, Duke of York, and his brother, Edmund, Earl of Rutland, reburied in a special chapel within the church's choir. This makes Fotheringhay a crucial site for understanding the Wars of the Roses and the Yorkist dynasty.
Beyond these prominent figures, the church itself is a magnificent example of 15th-century Perpendicular Gothic architecture. Its construction and grandeur reflect the power and influence of the nobility during that era. Information panels inside the church provide further details about its history, the adjacent Fotheringhay Castle, and the lives of those connected to it.
Experiencing the Tranquility and Atmosphere
The natural beauty of the surroundings also contributes to the overall experience. The village of Fotheringhay itself is lovely, with opportunities for local walks that complement a visit to the church. Early mornings, especially with sunrise views, are highlighted as particularly magical times to visit, offering a serene ambiance and beautiful light for photography.
For those seeking a deeper connection with the site, engaging with the knowledgeable church warden is highly recommended. Their willingness to share fascinating facts about Richard III, Mary Queen of Scots, and the church's architecture can transform a simple visit into an enriching historical journey.
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