Church of St Mary & St Eanswythe - Image 1
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St Mary and St Eanswythe Church

4.6
·80 reviews·, United Kingdom

A serene, historic church in Folkestone, known for its beautiful stained glass and peaceful atmosphere. A hidden gem offering tranquility and a connec...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Quietest for reflection

CrowdLow
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Church of St Mary & St Eanswythe - Image 1

St Mary and St Eanswythe Church

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Quietest for reflection

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene, historic church in Folkestone, known for its beautiful stained glass and peaceful atmosphere. A hidden gem offering tranquility and a connection to the past.

4.6
(80 reviews)

"A gorgeous old church hidden and often overlooked in the heart of Folkestone."

Vertical photo
TIP

Allow time for quiet

Seek out a chapel for personal reflection; visitors appreciate the understanding staff. :pray:

Check for events

Regular concerts and special services, like the Translation of St Eanswythe, add to the experience. :musical_score:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stunning Stained Glass Windows

Stunning Stained Glass Windows

Throughout the church

Admire the intricate beauty and vibrant colors of the church's historical stained glass windows.

The Reliquary of St. Eanswythe

The Reliquary of St. Eanswythe

Chapel area

See the newly designed reliquary, a testament to the church's dedication to its patron saint.

Peaceful Contemplation Space

Peaceful Contemplation Space

Chapels and quiet corners

Find a moment of quiet reflection in this serene and beautiful place, a sanctuary from the everyday.

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Planning Your Visit

Discover Folkestone's Hidden Gem

St Mary and St Eanswythe Church offers a tranquil escape with stunning stained glass and a rich history. Often overlooked, it's a peaceful sanctuary in Folkestone's heart. Plan your visit to soak in the serene atmosphere and historical significance.

Experience Local Culture

This church is a hub for local events, including concerts and special services like the Translation of St Eanswythe. Check their schedule for opportunities to experience Folkestone's vibrant community and artistic scene.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quietest for reflection
Crowd
Low
When
During concerts
Why
Experience local talent
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

How this didn’t make it to the official 8 Wonders of Kansas, I will never know…I dare you to go to their Christmas Eve service 📍St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict, KS #Kansas #ExploreKS #ToTheStarsKS #ChurchTok #HolidayVibes #ThingsToDo #FamilyTrip
@stevenkimmi
22.5K likes • 180.3K views

Allow time for quiet

Seek out a chapel for personal reflection; visitors appreciate the understanding staff. :pray:

Check for events

Regular concerts and special services, like the Translation of St Eanswythe, add to the experience. :musical_score:

St Mary and St Eanswythe church celebrated the festival of its patron Saint Eanswythe by unveiling the design for a reliquary to house her remains. The church alongside the Diocese of Canterbury held a competition to design the reliquary, with her remains previously being kept in a lead casket which had fallen into disrepair. Artist Sophie Hacker was the winning designer, with her work drawing i...
dioceseofcanterbury
15 likes • 731 views

Appreciate the history

The church boasts a fascinating history and beautiful architecture, especially the glass. :scroll:

Discover the reliquary

See the newly unveiled reliquary designed to house the remains of Saint Eanswythe. :gem:

Tips

from all over the internet

Allow time for quiet

Seek out a chapel for personal reflection; visitors appreciate the understanding staff. :pray:

Check for events

Regular concerts and special services, like the Translation of St Eanswythe, add to the experience. :musical_score:

Appreciate the history

The church boasts a fascinating history and beautiful architecture, especially the glass. :scroll:

Discover the reliquary

See the newly unveiled reliquary designed to house the remains of Saint Eanswythe. :gem:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(80 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise St Mary and St Eanswythe Church for its serene atmosphere, beautiful stained glass, and rich historical significance. It's often described as a peaceful sanctuary in Folkestone, offering a welcome respite. While generally well-loved, some may find it easily overlooked due to its location.

"A gorgeous old church hidden and often overlooked in the heart of Folkestone.
The building is beautiful with some stunning glass windows.
Also it has a very interesting history."

Rose Vidovix

"A pretty church on the edge of the town center. The staff are friendly and are happy to tell you all about the church's history. They have regular concerts there, often with an excellent choir."

Julian Frost

"Beautiful church, so quiet and peaceful. I was allowed to just exist in a chapel on my own while a few people were attending a service on the other side. I really appreciated them understanding my need to be alone in a safe space."

Neen Sever

What People Like

Peaceful and tranquil atmosphere
Stunning stained glass
Rich history and heritage

What People Dislike

Can be easily overlooked

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The church is located in the heart of Folkestone, making it easily accessible by foot from the town center. Public transport options include local buses that stop nearby. Parking may be limited in the immediate vicinity, so consider public transport or walking if possible. Reddit

While many historic churches have accessibility challenges, it's best to contact the church directly for the most up-to-date information on wheelchair access and facilities. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to St Mary and St Eanswythe Church is typically free, though donations are always welcome to help with its upkeep. Special events or concerts may have separate admission fees. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially for historic churches. It's advisable to check the church's official website or contact them directly for the most accurate visiting times. Reddit

Yes, the church holds regular services. Visitors are welcome to attend, and it's a great way to experience the spiritual heart of the community. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always respectful to be discreet and avoid flash photography, especially during services. Some areas or specific events might have restrictions. Reddit

The stained glass windows are a major highlight for photographers. Look for opportunities to capture the light filtering through them. The architectural details and peaceful chapels also make for beautiful shots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Solo Travelers Seeking Peace

For solo travelers looking for a quiet retreat, St Mary and St Eanswythe Church is an ideal stop. You can find a peaceful chapel to sit in solitude, and the staff are known for their understanding and respect for personal space. Reddit It's a perfect spot to decompress and reflect during your travels.

History Buffs and Architecture Enthusiasts

This church is a treasure trove for those interested in history and architecture. Its connection to Saint Eanswythe and its ancient foundations offer a deep dive into early English history. Reddit Don't miss the beautiful stained glass windows and the intricate details of the building, which tell stories spanning centuries. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of St. Eanswythe

St Mary and St Eanswythe Church is deeply connected to Saint Eanswythe, the daughter of King Eadbald of Kent. She founded a monastery on the site in the 7th century, making it one of the earliest monastic foundations in England. The current church building, while much later, stands on this historically significant ground. The recent unveiling of a new reliquary to house her remains underscores the enduring reverence for her legacy. Instagram

This historical depth is palpable when you visit. Visitors often remark on the 'wonderful sense of history' and feeling like they are in a 'precious and beautiful place.' It’s this connection to centuries past that draws many seeking a moment of quiet contemplation and a tangible link to England's early Christian heritage. Reddit

Experiencing the Atmosphere

Many visitors describe St Mary and St Eanswythe Church as a place of profound peace and tranquility. It's highlighted as a 'very special place to seek some tranquillity in the chaos of modern Folkestone.' The church offers a sanctuary where individuals can find quiet contemplation, with staff being understanding of the need for personal space. Reddit

Beyond its spiritual role, the church also serves as a venue for local arts and culture. It frequently hosts concerts, often featuring an 'excellent choir.' This blend of sacred space and community engagement makes it a unique destination, offering both quiet reflection and vibrant local experiences. Reddit

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