St Matthew's Church Guildford
A nearly 150-year-old Anglican church in Guildford, known as 'the church in the park,' offering history and a peaceful retreat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Experience hymns and community
St Matthew's Church Guildford
Best Time
Experience hymns and community
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A nearly 150-year-old Anglican church in Guildford, known as 'the church in the park,' offering history and a peaceful retreat.
"A must-see if you love history, this almost 150-year-old church is a gem in the heart of Guildford."
Explore Guildford's History
Don't miss the historical booklet detailing the church's past. A true gem for history enthusiasts! :book:
Family-Friendly Services
Welcoming atmosphere for families, with a 9:00 am service including hymns. :children_crossing:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Architecture
Stirling Park
Marvel at this nearly 150-year-old Anglican church, a testament to Guildford's enduring history.
Peaceful Park Setting
Stirling Park
Enjoy the tranquility of Stirling Park, where the church stands as the sole building, offering a serene escape.
Community Worship
Main Sanctuary
Experience a warm, friendly atmosphere with services catering to families and featuring a band on select Sundays.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Guildford's Historic Gem
Experience Community and History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Explore Guildford's History
Don't miss the historical booklet detailing the church's past. A true gem for history enthusiasts! :book:
Family-Friendly Services
Welcoming atmosphere for families, with a 9:00 am service including hymns. :children_crossing:
Enjoy the Park Setting
The church is beautifully situated in Stirling Park, perfect for a peaceful stroll. :park:
Support Local Events
Check for community events like Songfest performances held at the church. :musical_score:
Tips
from all over the internet
Explore Guildford's History
Don't miss the historical booklet detailing the church's past. A true gem for history enthusiasts! :book:
Family-Friendly Services
Welcoming atmosphere for families, with a 9:00 am service including hymns. :children_crossing:
Enjoy the Park Setting
The church is beautifully situated in Stirling Park, perfect for a peaceful stroll. :park:
Support Local Events
Check for community events like Songfest performances held at the church. :musical_score:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise St. Matthew's Church for its rich history, peaceful park setting, and welcoming community atmosphere. It's highlighted as a significant historical landmark and a serene spot for reflection. Some minor confusion regarding historical details was noted in one review, but the overall sentiment is positive.
"If you like the old churches you have to check out this almost 150 years old St Mathew's church in the heart of Guildford. The last of the three churches still standing in Guilford, it was officially opened in June 1873. It is also known as "the church in the park"."
Willfred “Bullitt_mc”
"I actually got my churches mixed up it is this church that has the booklet and amazing history. From as early 1830 I think . Not the Stirling st church as I posted earlier. Sorry about that . St Mathew's church is a must see if you love history ."
Barbara Causby
"I am a regular attender at this Parish and have experienced a great atmosphere with dedicated and friendly worshippers at all times."
John Davis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Matthew's Church is located in the heart of Guildford, within Stirling Park. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving Guildford.
While specific accessibility details aren't widely published, churches often strive to accommodate visitors. It's recommended to contact the church directly for the most accurate information regarding wheelchair access to the sanctuary and grounds.
St. Matthew's Church is situated in Stirling Park, making it a great starting point for exploring the park's tranquility. Guildford town itself offers historical sites and local amenities to discover on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
As an active place of worship, St. Matthew's Church typically does not charge an admission fee for visitors wishing to explore its historic architecture or enjoy the park setting. Donations are often appreciated.
The church is primarily open for services. For general visiting outside of service times, it's advisable to check with the parish office or look for posted hours on-site. The surrounding Stirling Park is generally accessible during daylight hours.
Yes, St. Matthew's Church welcomes attendees to its services. They offer a 7:45 am service (without hymns) and a 9:00 am service (with hymns), with morning tea following the second service.
Indeed! St. Matthew's Church hosts various community events, including performances like Songfest. They also have a band that plays on the second Sunday of the month (excluding January).
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can admire the historic architecture of the nearly 150-year-old church, explore the peaceful Stirling Park it resides in, and attend services. A historical booklet is available for those interested in its past. +1
The church's historic architecture and its setting in Stirling Park offer picturesque opportunities for photography, especially during golden hours. The serene environment also lends itself to contemplative shots.
The church grounds and Stirling Park are generally accommodating to dogs on leads, making it a pleasant spot for pet owners to visit.
The church is described as having a great atmosphere with dedicated and friendly worshippers. It's considered a welcoming place for families and those seeking a peaceful environment.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While St. Matthew's Church itself doesn't offer dining, the surrounding Guildford area has various cafes and eateries. You can enjoy morning tea after the 9:00 am service at the church.
Stirling Park is a lovely, well-maintained space that is suitable for picnics. It offers a quiet and pleasant environment to enjoy a meal outdoors.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the historic church, especially with the backdrop of Stirling Park, offers beautiful photographic opportunities. Consider capturing the architectural details and the serene park surroundings.
Photography inside active places of worship can sometimes be restricted, especially during services. It's best to be respectful and inquire with church officials if you wish to take photos inside.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on the second Sunday of the month to experience the live band, which could be an added attraction for younger visitors. The church's historical booklet also offers an opportunity to introduce children to local history in an accessible way.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
Its location in Stirling Park, a well-maintained green space, adds to the historical ambiance. Exploring the church and its surroundings allows for a tangible connection to the region's heritage.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Attending a service, even if just to observe, can be a calming experience, and the historical aspect of the church adds a layer of contemplative interest.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
For those fascinated by history, the church offers a booklet filled with its amazing history, providing in-depth insights into its past and its role in the community.
Architectural Significance
The architecture of St. Matthew's Church reflects the era in which it was built, offering a glimpse into historical building styles. While specific architectural details are not extensively documented in the provided snippets, its status as a nearly 150-year-old structure suggests a design that has withstood the test of time. Its presence as the sole building in Stirling Park also enhances its visual prominence and historical narrative.
Community and Worship Experience
The worship services are a central part of the church's life. They offer two distinct services on Sundays: an early 7:45 am service without hymns, and a 9:00 am service that includes hymns. Following the second service, congregants can enjoy morning tea, fostering fellowship and connection.
Welcoming Environment
The emphasis on friendliness and dedication among worshippers creates a positive and inviting environment. This is particularly beneficial for families looking for a church community or individuals seeking a spiritual home. The combination of traditional worship elements with community events and a welcoming spirit makes St. Matthew's Church a significant part of the Guildford community.
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