St Martin le Grand Coney Street
A historic York church, damaged in WW2 and beautifully restored as a Chapel of Peace, blending ancient architecture with modern art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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St Martin le Grand Coney Street
Best Time
More likely to be open
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic York church, damaged in WW2 and beautifully restored as a Chapel of Peace, blending ancient architecture with modern art.
"A quiet little church that feels like a deep breath for the soul."
Check Opening Times
Hours can vary; confirm before your visit to avoid disappointment. :clock1:
WW2 Window Significance
Don't miss the powerful WW2 bombing window, a modern artistic testament. :sparkles:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
WW2 Bombing Window
East End
A striking, modern east window depicting the church's burning, a symbol of resilience.
Restored West Window
North Wall
The largest parish church window in York, dating from 1440, saved and reinstated after WW2.
Chapel of Peace
Interior
A beautifully renovated space, now a chapel of peace, offering a serene atmosphere.
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A Place of Resilience
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Insider Tips
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St Martin le Grand church, York.
Check Opening Times
Hours can vary; confirm before your visit to avoid disappointment. :clock1:
WW2 Window Significance
Don't miss the powerful WW2 bombing window, a modern artistic testament. :sparkles:
Orthodox here but I figured my Catholic friends would appreciate this as well. I visited St.Martin's church in England this week... The oldest church in the English speaking world. 🏴
St. Martin's Church in Canterbury, England, is the oldest church in the English-speaking world, having been built in 580 AD from an earlier Roman structure
Peaceful Atmosphere
Enjoy the quiet, healing silence; it's a perfect spot for reflection. :pray:
Modern Art Integration
Appreciate the blend of ancient architecture with striking modern art. :art:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Opening Times
Hours can vary; confirm before your visit to avoid disappointment. :clock1:
WW2 Window Significance
Don't miss the powerful WW2 bombing window, a modern artistic testament. :sparkles:
Peaceful Atmosphere
Enjoy the quiet, healing silence; it's a perfect spot for reflection. :pray:
Modern Art Integration
Appreciate the blend of ancient architecture with striking modern art. :art:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
St Martin le Grand Coney Street is praised for its peaceful atmosphere and its powerful blend of historical significance and modern artistic expression, particularly its WW2 bombing window. While some lament its state of disrepair, others appreciate the beautiful renovation and its role as a Chapel of Peace. Visitors often find it a restorative and moving experience.
"A quiet little church that feels like a deep breath for the soul. Peaceful, still, and gently healing in its silence."
Mommy Izzy
"Sad to see this church has been left to rot! It’s a beautiful building that needs rescuing."
Raelene Ristevski
"Called into this lovely little church which was bombed in WW2. The remaining part of the church has been beautifully renovated and was open for the sale of Christmas cards and free to enter.
After extensive rebuilding, the church was rehallowed as a chapel of peace.
Some strikingly modern elements have taken their place alongside the old. A suitably fiery east window depicting the burning of the church soars above a gold painted aluminium sculpture of the Last Supper, the figures angular and twisted.
The old west window remains. Dating from about 1440 and the largest of any parish church in York, it was fortunately removed into store in 1940 for protection and reinstated in the new north wall in 1967 as part of the triumphant restoration."
Jo G
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St Martin le Grand is located in the heart of York, easily accessible on foot from the city center. If arriving by train, it's a pleasant walk from York Station. Parking is available in nearby city car parks, though it can be expensive.
While the main areas have been renovated, accessibility can vary due to the historic nature of the building. It's advisable to contact the church directly for specific accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can be inconsistent. Some visitors have reported it being closed on Friday mornings, while others found it open for events or sales. It's best to check for any scheduled events or contact the church directly before visiting.
Entry to St Martin le Grand is generally free, as it is often open as a chapel of peace. Donations are welcome to support its upkeep and restoration efforts.
Formal tours may not be regularly scheduled. However, the church is often open for visitors to explore independently. For specific group or guided tour inquiries, it's recommended to reach out to the church administration.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The church features both a historic 1440 west window, the largest parish church window in York, and a striking modern east window depicting the WW2 bombing of the church. Both offer unique artistic and historical perspectives.
This church has a very long history, with mentions of it dating back to the 500s, making it one of the oldest in England. It suffered significant damage during WW2 but has since been beautifully restored and re-consecrated as a Chapel of Peace.
Visitors often highlight the peaceful atmosphere, the blend of ancient architecture with modern art installations like the gold aluminium sculpture of the Last Supper, and the poignant WW2 bombing window.
Yes, many visitors describe it as a quiet, peaceful, and healing space, offering a welcome respite from the bustle of the city. It's often referred to as a 'deep breath for the soul'.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Being in the center of York, there are numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants within a short walking distance of St Martin le Grand. You'll find a wide range of options to suit different tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is permitted inside St Martin le Grand. However, it's always respectful to be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography, especially during services or quiet contemplation.
The dramatic WW2 bombing window and the large, historic west window are particularly photogenic. The modern sculpture of the Last Supper also offers a unique photographic opportunity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🕊️ Those Seeking Peace and Quiet
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A History of Resilience and Restoration
Following the extensive rebuilding efforts, the church was re-consecrated as a 'Chapel of Peace.' This designation reflects its transformation into a sanctuary of calm and reflection. The restoration incorporated strikingly modern elements alongside the old, creating a unique blend of historical depth and contemporary artistry. Visitors can witness this juxtaposition, appreciating how the past and present coexist within its walls, offering a powerful narrative of continuity and hope.
Artistic Expressions of Faith and History
Complementing the historical windows, a gold-painted aluminium sculpture of the Last Supper adds a contemporary spiritual dimension. The figures are described as angular and twisted, offering a unique and thought-provoking interpretation of this iconic biblical scene. This integration of modern art within an ancient sacred space creates a dynamic and engaging experience for visitors, inviting them to connect with faith and history in new ways. The overall atmosphere is often described as peaceful and healing, making it a place for quiet reflection.
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