St Etheldreda's Church Hatfield
A historic 13th-century church offering a peaceful sanctuary, rich Cecil family history, and a warm, welcoming community.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Experience a holy and special atmosphere
St Etheldreda's Church Hatfield
Best Time
Experience a holy and special atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 13th-century church offering a peaceful sanctuary, rich Cecil family history, and a warm, welcoming community.
"It was wonderful, the choir are fabulous!! The church itself is magnificent and steeped in rich history."
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be difficult; plan ahead or use alternative transport.
🕰️ Explore Historical Memorials
Take time to appreciate the many historical memorials within the church.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cecil Family Tombs
Interior
Discover the final resting places of influential figures, including Prime Ministers and Earls of Salisbury.
13th Century Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Marvel at the beautifully preserved medieval structure, with parts of the church dating back even earlier.
Fabulous Choir Performances
Main Sanctuary
Experience the uplifting sounds of the church choir during services, described as 'fabulous' by attendees.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Pointers
Historical Immersion
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be difficult; plan ahead or use alternative transport.
🕰️ Explore Historical Memorials
Take time to appreciate the many historical memorials within the church.
🎶 Enjoy the Choir
Don't miss the 'fabulous' choir during services for a truly uplifting experience.
🧘♀️ Find Your Quiet Place
Visit for a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for quiet reflection.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be difficult; plan ahead or use alternative transport.
🕰️ Explore Historical Memorials
Take time to appreciate the many historical memorials within the church.
🎶 Enjoy the Choir
Don't miss the 'fabulous' choir during services for a truly uplifting experience.
🧘♀️ Find Your Quiet Place
Visit for a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for quiet reflection.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
St Etheldreda's Church is lauded as a magnificent, historically rich, and deeply spiritual place. Visitors consistently praise its welcoming atmosphere, fabulous choir, and the profound sense of community it offers. While parking can be a challenge, the overall experience is described as holy, special, and heavenly, making it a cherished spot for both locals and those seeking their roots.
"An inclusive place of worship. I live up North and was seeking my roots so travelled to where I was baptised for the Christmas services. I attended three services -crib service, midnight mass and Christmas morning. I was welcomed with the loving arms of jesus in each service. It was wonderful, the choir are fabulous!! The church itself is magnificent and steeped in rich history. Parking was a bit of a nightmare, but nothing can really be done about that, like a lot of churches, they were built and surrounded with community before cars were a thing. Going to St Etheldredas was holy and special for me, to be surrounded by a community that I didn't know and so warmly received was truly wonderful."
Joseph Reid
"13th century (and parts earlier church) beautifully preserved.
Many historical memorials and buried members of the Cecil family (1st earl of Salisbury), Lord Melbourne and Lord Salisbury (UK Prime ministers) and others."
Sam Aberman
"I love this historic church. I visit at least twice a week.
It's my go too quiet place.
Situated next to Hatfiel House and Hatfield Old Palace.
Visit the Horse and Groom Pub for a great pint and food."
peter holding
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St Etheldreda's Church is located next to Hatfield House and Hatfield Old Palace. While specific public transport routes aren't detailed in reviews, its proximity to these landmarks suggests it's accessible within Hatfield. Parking is noted as a challenge, so consider local bus services or walking if possible.
Parking is described as a 'nightmare' by visitors, indicating limited availability. It's recommended to arrive early or explore alternative parking solutions in the vicinity.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
As a place of worship, St Etheldreda's Church typically does not require tickets for entry to regular services or for quiet contemplation. Special events might have separate ticketing.
While specific hours aren't listed, the church is described as a place for 'at least twice a week' visits and a 'go to quiet place,' suggesting it's accessible for personal reflection outside of service times. Christmas services are a popular draw.
Entry to the church for worship and personal reflection is generally free. Donations are often welcomed to help maintain the historic building.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is consistently described as peaceful, warm, welcoming, holy, and special. It's a place of 'family and community' and a 'quiet place' for reflection.
The church is a 13th-century structure with earlier parts, beautifully preserved. It contains historical memorials for prominent families like the Cecils, including Prime Ministers Lord Melbourne and Lord Salisbury.
Visitors highlight the 'magnificent' church itself, its rich history, and numerous historical memorials. The choir is also a significant feature, praised for its 'fabulous' performances.
Yes, the church is described as a place where children were christened, resulting in a 'warm and heavenly experience,' indicating it's a popular venue for significant life events.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Horse and Groom Pub is recommended for a 'great pint and food,' located conveniently near the church and Hatfield House.
📸 📸 Photography
While not explicitly stated, photography for personal use is generally permitted in historic churches, though it's always respectful to be discreet and avoid flash during services.
The church's medieval architecture, historical memorials, and its setting next to Hatfield House offer numerous picturesque opportunities for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs
🧘♀️ Solitude Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Beyond its historical gravitas, St Etheldreda's is cherished for its peaceful and welcoming atmosphere. It's described as a 'go to quiet place,' offering solace and a sense of community. This duality of historical significance and spiritual sanctuary makes it a unique destination. The church's proximity to Hatfield House and Hatfield Old Palace further enhances its appeal, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of the area. Whether you're a history enthusiast, seeking a moment of quiet reflection, or attending a service, St Etheldreda's offers a profound experience.
Community and Worship
The choir at St Etheldreda's is a standout feature, frequently lauded as 'fabulous.' Their performances add a rich spiritual and artistic dimension to the services, creating memorable experiences for attendees. For those seeking a spiritual connection, the church offers a deeply fulfilling environment. It's a place where individuals can feel 'welcomed with the loving arms of Jesus,' fostering a sense of belonging and peace, even for those visiting from afar.
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