St Mary Magdalene Church Ickleton
Discover medieval frescoes and Norman architecture at St. Mary Magdalene, an 11th-century church with centuries of history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
St Mary Magdalene Church Ickleton
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover medieval frescoes and Norman architecture at St. Mary Magdalene, an 11th-century church with centuries of history.
"A place packed in history with Medieval glass and paintings. It has character and charm."
🤫 Respect the Serenity
This is an active place of worship. Please be mindful of services and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor.
🚗 Parking Advice
On-street parking is available nearby, but can be limited, especially during events.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.6 · 13 reviews
Type
Church
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
12th Century Frescoes
Chancel and Clerestory
Marvel at rare medieval wall paintings, including scenes of Christ's Passion and a Doom painting, rediscovered after a fire.
Norman Arcades
Nave and Aisles
See ancient Roman columns and bricks forming the arcades, a testament to the church's 11th and 12th-century origins.
Intricately Carved Pews
Nave
Admire the 15th-century pews featuring detailed carvings and ballflower motifs, adding to the church's historical charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Uncover Medieval Artistry
Experience Norman Architecture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Respect the Serenity
This is an active place of worship. Please be mindful of services and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor.
🚗 Parking Advice
On-street parking is available nearby, but can be limited, especially during events.
🖼️ Appreciate the Art
Take time to study the medieval frescoes; they are a significant historical and artistic treasure.
☕ Morning Coffee Group
Join the friendly morning coffee group for a warm welcome and good company.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Respect the Serenity
This is an active place of worship. Please be mindful of services and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor.
🚗 Parking Advice
On-street parking is available nearby, but can be limited, especially during events.
🖼️ Appreciate the Art
Take time to study the medieval frescoes; they are a significant historical and artistic treasure.
☕ Morning Coffee Group
Join the friendly morning coffee group for a warm welcome and good company.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St. Mary Magdalene Church for its incredible history and beautiful medieval art, particularly the rediscovered frescoes. The Norman architecture and intricate 15th-century carvings are also highlighted as significant attractions. The church is described as having character and charm, with friendly churchwardens and a warm welcome from the community.
"Beautiful. Incredible history. St Mary's is in the small village of Ickleton."
Liz Olsen
"A place packed in history. with Medieval glass and paintings. It has character and charm with old pews. The church has great churchwardens and helpers. It has great leaders and the worship is led by Rev Lydia Smith who has three parishes in the are called Hinkledux Hinxton, Ickleton and Duxford. All work together for the Good. A warm welcome is there. Also morning coffee group is said to be one of the best in the area."
Anne Peverett
"The Church of St Mary Magdalene in Ickleton was built in the 11th and 12th century of flint and rubble. Originally dedicated to St Mary the Virgin, the structure retains much of its original Norman fabric despite later enlargement and embellishments.
The arcades separating nave and aisles are either Roman columns carved from single stones or filled in with old roman bricks. Above the arcades, the east and north sides of the clerestory features fantastic 12th century frescos. The largest consists of four scenes of the Christ's Passion and the smaller is from a slightly later and is a Doom painting. These frescos were likely whitewashed after the Dissolution, and were only rediscovered after a significant fire in 1979.
The 14th century saw much reworking to the structure, mainly enlargements. This period also saw the addition of the characteristic broach spire, featuring a small tudor sanctus bell. The pews and screen were added in the 15th century, all are intricately carved. The pews all feature regular ballflower motifs and carved ends."
Eliot Collins
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located in the small village of Ickleton. Driving is the most common way to reach it. Limited on-street parking is available nearby.
While specific bus routes can vary, checking local transport schedules for services to Ickleton is recommended for public transport users.
The church is a prominent landmark in the village. Using a GPS or map application on your phone will guide you directly to its location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to St Mary Magdalene Church is typically free, as it is an active place of worship. Donations are always welcome to help with upkeep.
As an active church, it is generally open during daylight hours, though specific times may vary. It's advisable to check for any scheduled services or events that might affect access.
Yes, the church hosts various events and services. Attending these can be a wonderful way to experience the community and its traditions.
No, tickets are not required for general visits. However, for specific events like funerals, arrangements would be made by the organizers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The church boasts stunning 12th-century frescoes, original Norman architecture with Roman elements, and intricately carved 15th-century pews.
While the church has historical architecture, efforts are usually made to accommodate visitors. It's best to contact the church directly for specific accessibility information.
Information on guided tours may be limited. However, the churchwardens and helpers are often knowledgeable and can provide insights.
It's a Grade 1 listed church dating back to the 11th century, featuring significant medieval art and Norman architectural elements, making it a site of considerable historical importance.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always polite to be discreet and avoid flash, especially during services.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The village of Ickleton may have local pubs or cafes. For a wider selection, nearby towns like Saffron Walden or Cambridge offer more dining choices.
Yes, there's a morning coffee group that is said to be one of the best in the area, offering a warm welcome.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning medieval frescoes, the Norman architecture, and the intricate details of the 15th-century pews. The exterior and broach spire are also picturesque.
Yes, photography for personal use is generally allowed. Be mindful of lighting conditions and avoid flash to protect the delicate artwork.
Morning light can be beautiful for the exterior, while interior shots might benefit from diffused natural light. Consider visiting during quieter hours.
Social
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