St Mary Redcliffe Church from the south churchyard
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St Mary Redcliffe Bristol

4.7
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

A magnificent 15th-century Gothic church in Bristol, renowned for its stunning architecture, intricate stained glass, and a unique cellar cafe.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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St Mary Redcliffe Church from the south churchyard

St Mary Redcliffe Bristol

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A magnificent 15th-century Gothic church in Bristol, renowned for its stunning architecture, intricate stained glass, and a unique cellar cafe.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"Absolutely beautiful and spectacular place to visit, lots to see and plenty of history to read around the building."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Entry, Make a Donation

Entry is free, but donations are highly appreciated to help preserve this stunning church. :heart:

👃 Follow Your Nose to the Cafe

The cellar cafe's delicious aromas are unmissable! Try the empanadas. :coffee:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gothic Architecture

Gothic Architecture

Marvel at the intricate 15th-century Gothic design, a true masterpiece of medieval architecture.

Stained Glass Windows

Stained Glass Windows

Admire the numerous, beautifully crafted stained glass windows that illuminate the interior with vibrant colors.

Chapel of the Holy Trinity

Chapel of the Holy Trinity

Discover the historic chapel, a significant site for the founding fathers of Pennsylvania.

Cellar Cafe

Cellar Cafe

Experience authentic Chilean cuisine and coffee in a unique setting within the church's cellars.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Entry, Big Impact

St Mary Redcliffe offers free admission, making it an accessible gem. Donations are encouraged to help maintain this historic site. Plan for at least an hour to soak in the Gothic architecture and stained glass.

Hidden Cafe Gem

Don't miss the unique cafe in the church cellars! It serves authentic Chilean food and coffee, offering a warm respite and a delicious surprise. Follow your nose to find it.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
During organ recitals
Why
Experience amazing acoustics
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

St Mary Redcliffe Church - Bristol

🎯 Free Entry, Make a Donation

Entry is free, but donations are highly appreciated to help preserve this stunning church. :heart:

👃 Follow Your Nose to the Cafe

The cellar cafe's delicious aromas are unmissable! Try the empanadas. :coffee:

reddit.com

what's the best preserved part of bristol in regards to architecture?

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Gardens

The well-maintained gardens offer a lovely space to relax and admire the church's exterior. :evergreen_tree:

🎶 Listen for the Organ

If you're lucky, you might hear the organist playing, showcasing the church's incredible acoustics. :musical_note:

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Entry, Make a Donation

Entry is free, but donations are highly appreciated to help preserve this stunning church. :heart:

👃 Follow Your Nose to the Cafe

The cellar cafe's delicious aromas are unmissable! Try the empanadas. :coffee:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Gardens

The well-maintained gardens offer a lovely space to relax and admire the church's exterior. :evergreen_tree:

🎶 Listen for the Organ

If you're lucky, you might hear the organist playing, showcasing the church's incredible acoustics. :musical_note:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise St Mary Redcliffe for its breathtaking Gothic architecture and stunning stained glass windows, often describing it as a spectacular and well-maintained landmark. The free entry is a significant plus, and many highlight the unique cellar cafe as a delightful surprise. Some minor points of feedback include occasional lack of detailed information for self-guided tours and the need for clearer signage for the cafe.

"An amazing well maintained church, free entry. So many beautiful stained glass windows on every side. The organist was playing while I was there which showed off the amazing acoustics. Well worth a visit, make a donation after your visit."

Andy Savage

"This is a beautiful church, I had a good nosy around, and in the cellar if you go down the steps, you'll find a new cafe selling authentic homemade Chilean food, coffees and cakes. You won't be able to miss it because you'll do what I did and follow your nose, it smells divine! The beef empanada was beautiful, and it was so lovely to sit in the warmth and take in the surroundings. Really finished off my trip nicely."

Risemoor sheepdogs

"Absolutely beautiful and spectacular place to visit,lots to see and plenty of history to read around the building"

Corinne Dyer

What People Like

Stunning Gothic architecture
Beautiful stained glass
Free entry

What People Dislike

Occasional lack of info
Cafe signage

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St Mary Redcliffe is centrally located in Bristol. You can easily reach it by public transport, with many bus routes stopping nearby. It's also a pleasant walk from Bristol Temple Meads train station. :bus: :train:

Limited street parking is available nearby, but it can be challenging. Several pay-and-display car parks are within a short walking distance. :car:

The main church area is generally accessible. However, the cellar cafe may have limited accessibility due to its location. It's advisable to contact the church directly for specific accessibility queries. :wheelchair:

Yes, it's a straightforward walk from Bristol's city center, taking around 15-20 minutes. The route is generally flat and pleasant. :walking:

Approaching from Redcliffe Way offers a grand view of the church's facade. The surrounding streets also provide various angles for capturing its impressive architecture. :camerawithflash:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to St Mary Redcliffe Church is free! Donations are gratefully accepted to help with the upkeep of this historic building. :ticket:

Opening hours can vary, but the church is typically open daily. It's best to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information, especially for specific services or events. :clock1:

Yes, the cellar cafe is open during the church's visiting hours. It's a popular spot, so it might get busy during peak times. :coffee:

While there isn't always a formal guided tour schedule, volunteers are often available to answer questions. Informational materials are also provided within the church. :scroll:

Absolutely! Attending a service is a wonderful way to experience the church's atmosphere and acoustics. Check the church's schedule for service times. :pray:

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find stunning Gothic architecture, beautiful stained glass windows, historical monuments, and the unique Chapel of the Holy Trinity. The sheer scale and detail are breathtaking. :gem:

Most visitors spend between 1 to 2 hours exploring the church and its grounds. If you plan to enjoy the cafe, allow extra time. :timer:

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always respectful to be mindful of services or events. Avoid using flash photography. :iphone:

It's a landmark 15th-century church renowned for its Gothic architecture. The Chapel of the Holy Trinity has connections to the founding fathers of Pennsylvania, making it historically significant for American visitors. :flag_us: :gb:

The church occasionally hosts concerts, exhibitions, and special services. It's worth checking their website or local listings for any upcoming events during your visit. :calendar:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The most unique dining option is the cafe located in the church's cellars, offering Chilean cuisine. Several other cafes and restaurants are also available in the surrounding Redcliffe area. :forkandknife:

The cellar cafe specializes in authentic homemade Chilean food, including delicious empanadas, along with coffees and cakes. :chile:

Prices are generally reasonable, offering good value for the quality and unique experience. It's a great spot for a casual and tasty meal. :moneybag:

While the menu focuses on Chilean specialties, it's always a good idea to ask about vegetarian or vegan options available on the day of your visit. :leaf:

Yes, the cellar cafe offers a selection of coffees and homemade cakes, perfect for a mid-visit treat. :cake:

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior is stunning from Redcliffe Way. Inside, focus on the stained glass windows, the vaulted ceilings, and architectural details. The altar area and the Chapel of the Holy Trinity are also key photo opportunities. :camera:

Yes, you can photograph the stained glass windows. They are particularly beautiful when the sun shines through them, creating vibrant colors. :art:

Modern smartphones are capable of capturing excellent interior shots, especially in good lighting. Try to use natural light from the windows to your advantage. :smartphone:

Drone photography is generally not permitted in and around churches due to privacy and safety regulations. Always check local bylaws before flying a drone. :noentrysign:

Late afternoon light can be beautiful for exterior shots, casting a warm glow on the stone. Early morning can also offer softer light and fewer crowds. :sunrise:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St Mary Redcliffe can be a fascinating place for families. The sheer size of the church and the stories behind its history can capture children's imaginations. Encourage them to spot different figures in the stained glass windows or imagine life centuries ago. The cellar cafe is also a great draw, offering tasty treats that kids usually love. Reddit

While the church is free to enter, consider bringing a small donation. The gardens surrounding the church provide a safe space for children to stretch their legs. Keep in mind that it is a place of worship, so maintaining a respectful volume is important. :family_mm:

🇺🇸 American Visitors

For American visitors, St Mary Redcliffe holds a special historical significance due to its Chapel of the Holy Trinity, which has connections to the founding fathers of Pennsylvania. This link to early American history can make the visit particularly resonant. Reddit

Many American tourists find the Gothic architecture and the sheer age of the building (predating the USA) to be incredibly impressive. It offers a tangible connection to centuries of history that shaped the Western world. :flag_us:

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

St Mary Redcliffe is a fantastic option for budget travelers as entry is completely free. This allows you to experience a significant historical and architectural landmark without any cost. Reddit

Make a small donation if you can to support its upkeep. For a budget-friendly meal, the cellar cafe offers good value, or you can pack a picnic to enjoy in the nearby gardens. :moneywithwings:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Gothic Grandeur

St Mary Redcliffe is a magnificent example of 15th-century Gothic architecture, often hailed as one of England's most beautiful parish churches. Its sheer scale and the intricate detail of its stonework are awe-inspiring. Visitors often remark on the spectacular stained glass windows that fill the interior with kaleidoscopic light, creating a truly spiritual atmosphere. The church's history is rich, with parts dating back even further, but the current structure is a testament to medieval craftsmanship. Reddit

Beyond its architectural splendor, the church holds a special place in history as the burial site of William Canynge, a wealthy merchant and five-time mayor of Bristol, who played a significant role in its rebuilding. The Chapel of the Holy Trinity is particularly noteworthy for its connection to the founding fathers of Pennsylvania, adding an transatlantic layer to its historical significance. This blend of local and international history makes it a compelling visit for many. Reddit

Many visitors are surprised by the free entry, making it an accessible cultural experience. The church is actively used for worship, and experiencing a service or even just hearing the organ play can be a profound part of the visit, showcasing the building's incredible acoustics. Reddit

The Unexpected Delights of the Cellar Cafe

One of the most delightful surprises for visitors to St Mary Redcliffe is the unique cafe located in the church's ancient cellars. This isn't your typical church hall tea room; it offers authentic homemade Chilean food, a welcome contrast to traditional British fare. The aroma of freshly baked goods and savory dishes often draws visitors in, creating an inviting and unexpected culinary experience. Reddit

Patrons rave about the delicious empanadas and the warm, welcoming atmosphere. It's a perfect spot to rest your feet, enjoy a coffee and cake, or have a light lunch after exploring the church's vast interior. The combination of historical surroundings and flavorful South American cuisine makes it a memorable stop. Reddit

This hidden gem adds another layer to the St Mary Redcliffe visit, proving that there's more to discover than just the stunning architecture. It’s a testament to the church's role as a community hub, offering something for everyone. :coffee: :chile: