St Mary's Church Broadwater - Image 1
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St Mary's Church Broadwater

4.5
·31 reviews·, United Kingdom

A Domesday Book-listed church blending ancient architecture with a vibrant, community-focused parish near Worthing.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wednesday mornings

Playgroup buzz

CrowdMedium
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St Mary's Church Broadwater - Image 1

St Mary's Church Broadwater

Best Time

Wednesday mornings

Playgroup buzz

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A Domesday Book-listed church blending ancient architecture with a vibrant, community-focused parish near Worthing.

4.5
(31 reviews)

"A beautiful building and an amazing community, steeped in over 1000 years of history. Reddit"

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TIP

🤝 Engage with Community

Don't hesitate to introduce yourself; the community is active and welcoming at events.

👶 Family Playgroup Fun

Bring little ones for a fun Wednesday playgroup with a great atmosphere.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Architecture

Ancient Architecture

The Church Building

Explore centuries of history within this beautiful, Domesday Book-listed building. A true architectural gem.

Vibrant Community Hub

Vibrant Community Hub

Parish Hall & Grounds

Experience a welcoming atmosphere with regular playgroups and community events. Great for families!

Picturesque Village Setting

Picturesque Village Setting

Broadwater Village

Nestled near Worthing and the South Downs, enjoy the charm of Broadwater village.

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Community Spirit & Welcome

While St. Mary's boasts a rich history, some visitors note a less-than-warm initial welcome. Arriving with an open heart and perhaps a friendly smile can help bridge any perceived gaps. The church is active in the community, so engaging with events might offer a more relaxed entry point than a Sunday service for newcomers. Reddit

Historical Significance

Parts of St. Mary's date back over 1000 years, mentioned in the Domesday Book. This ancient structure offers a tangible link to the past, making it a fascinating visit for history buffs. Appreciating its architectural evolution adds depth to the experience. Reddit

Best Times

When
Wednesday mornings
Why
Playgroup buzz
Crowd
Medium
When
Community event days
Why
Engaging atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

It’s short, scenic and almost anyone can hike to it! This should be your first hike in CO or for anyone visiting that is worried about altitude #colorado #coloradoadventures #adventure #stmarys #glacier #coloradomountains
@_haubibi
12.4K likes • 145K views

🤝 Engage with Community

Don't hesitate to introduce yourself; the community is active and welcoming at events. Reddit

👶 Family Playgroup Fun

Bring little ones for a fun Wednesday playgroup with a great atmosphere. Reddit

A lovely festive evening at Broadwater Parish, St Mary’s Church Christmas Carol service, some of the collection money from their Christmas services will be donated to us 💜💜
billyandbeyond
4 likes • 259 views
Sealed with a kiss & a VW splitty! 💙 Congratulations to the newlyweds, Rebecca & Tom! 🥂 Married on Saturday at St Mary's Church in Broadwater with the celebratory reception at Findon Manor. The bride surprised her groom with our 1959 VW splitscreen, Bluebell, for their getaway car. The confetti throw just got real! Having a VW campervan was on their 'bucket list'. 😎 We do love a good surprise! ...
somethingbluecarhire
16 likes • 535 views

📜 Appreciate the History

Take time to admire the ancient architecture, parts of which are over 1000 years old. Reddit

reddit.com

Where in the whole UK should I live with 2 young kids and no car?

Tips

from all over the internet

🤝 Engage with Community

Don't hesitate to introduce yourself; the community is active and welcoming at events. Reddit

👶 Family Playgroup Fun

Bring little ones for a fun Wednesday playgroup with a great atmosphere. Reddit

📜 Appreciate the History

Take time to admire the ancient architecture, parts of which are over 1000 years old. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(31 reviews)

Reviews Summary

St. Mary's Church Broadwater is praised for its deep historical roots and vibrant community spirit, particularly through its social events and family-friendly playgroup. While the building itself is admired, some visitors have experienced a less immediate sense of welcome during Sunday services, though the overall community engagement is highly valued. Reddit

"Went too the church in the park Sunday. Left disappointed. It’s hard enough to attend a new church on your own,. Got there not 1 person gave me a friendly smile or a simple hello. Regular congregation, we’re singing from hymn sheets but not one person thought to give me one. So i could not participate in the worship without knowing the hymns. I sat there listening to the sermon which was a good word from god but I couldn’t help feeling the word was being contradicted by the actions of every one around me. Shame because looking around there was obviously a prescence from the lord but I left feeling no love and wishing I had gone else where. Sadly"

tim owen

"This is not only an amazing church building but an amazing community too. The church itself is listed in the doomsday book so parts of it are over 1000 years old. Obviously it has been modernised over the years and the team of ministers, volunteers and people that work in the parish are so dedicated to the community. The vicar is a real community leader and really enthusiastic about the local community and very approachable too. The church has lots of social activities that go on in the local community too.
This is everything a church be. A beautiful building and an amazing community.
The church is situated in the picturesque Broadwater village just North of Worthing and just next to the South downs national park."

Andy Cooper

"Wonderful people. Great venue"

Jonathan Baggaley

What People Like

Ancient architecture
Strong community spirit
Family-friendly events

What People Dislike

Reserved initial welcome

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St. Mary's Church is located in the picturesque Broadwater village, just north of Worthing and adjacent to the South Downs National Park. Visitors can typically reach Broadwater by car, with local bus services also connecting to Worthing. Parking availability may vary, especially on Sundays. Reddit

Parking information can be limited. It's advisable to check local signage or inquire with the church office beforehand, especially if attending a Sunday service or a large event. Reddit

Yes, Broadwater is accessible by public transport, with bus routes serving the Worthing area. Check local bus timetables for the most up-to-date information on routes and schedules. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

St. Mary's Church is a place of worship, and typically there is no admission fee for general visits. Donations are often welcome to support the upkeep of the historic building and its community activities. Reddit

As a working church, St. Mary's is generally open during daylight hours for private prayer and visits. However, specific opening times may vary due to services, events, or maintenance. It's best to check with the church office for precise hours. Reddit

Absolutely! St. Mary's is a thriving church with regular services. Visitors are welcome to attend Sunday services and other worship events. Reddit

For regular services, booking is usually not required. However, for special events or community gatherings, it's wise to check the church's website or social media for any booking requirements. Reddit

🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience

The church is described as having a beautiful building and an amazing community. While some visitors have noted a reserved initial reception, others highlight a strong community spirit and a welcoming atmosphere, especially during events and playgroups. Reddit

Yes, St. Mary's hosts a popular Wednesday playgroup that is very well-loved by children and parents alike, contributing to a nice community atmosphere. Reddit

St. Mary's Church is historically significant as it is listed in the Domesday Book, meaning parts of it are over 1000 years old. It has undergone modernization over the years while retaining its ancient roots. Reddit

Information on accessibility can vary for historic buildings. It's recommended to contact the church directly to inquire about specific accessibility features for those with mobility needs. Reddit

Sunday services typically include worship with hymns and a sermon. While the sermon is often praised, some visitors have felt a lack of immediate engagement from the congregation. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

St. Mary's Church itself may not have dedicated dining facilities, but it is situated in Broadwater village, which likely offers local cafes and pubs. The church does host community events that may include refreshments. Reddit

For general visits, bringing your own food might be acceptable in designated areas, but it's best to avoid eating inside the main church sanctuary. If attending a specific event, check their policies. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary in churches. It's generally respectful to avoid flash photography and to be mindful of services or private moments. If unsure, it's always best to ask permission. Reddit

The ancient architecture of the church building itself offers many photographic opportunities. The surrounding Broadwater village and its proximity to the South Downs also provide scenic backdrops. Reddit

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Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St. Mary's Church Broadwater is a fantastic spot for families, particularly thanks to its popular Wednesday playgroup. This is a great way for children to have fun and for parents to connect with others in a friendly environment. Reddit The church is described as great for families, indicating a welcoming attitude towards younger visitors and their needs. While Sunday services are available, the playgroup offers a more relaxed and interactive experience for the little ones. Consider checking for other family-friendly events hosted by the church throughout the year. Reddit

🏛️ History Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by history, St. Mary's Church Broadwater is a must-visit. As a church listed in the Domesday Book, its origins stretch back over a thousand years, offering a tangible connection to medieval England. Reddit You can spend time admiring the ancient architecture, imagining the centuries of life and worship that have unfolded within its walls. The blend of ancient structure with modern adaptations makes for a compelling study of historical preservation and evolution. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Thousand Years of History

St. Mary's Church Broadwater is not just a building; it's a living testament to over a millennium of history. Its mention in the Domesday Book signifies its ancient origins, making it one of the region's most historically significant sites. Over the centuries, the church has undoubtedly seen countless changes, from architectural modifications to shifts in community life. This deep historical layering offers a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with the past. Exploring the nooks and crannies of such an old structure can feel like stepping back in time, offering a profound sense of continuity and heritage. Reddit

While parts of the church are ancient, it has also been modernized over the years to serve contemporary needs. This blend of old and new is characteristic of many historic churches that strive to remain relevant to their communities. The dedication of the ministers, volunteers, and parish members ensures that the church continues to be a vibrant center for worship and community engagement. This ongoing life within ancient walls is a key part of its appeal. Reddit

Community and Connection

Beyond its historical significance, St. Mary's Church Broadwater is highlighted as a thriving church with a strong community focus. The vicar is described as a real community leader, enthusiastic and approachable, which sets a positive tone for the parish. This leadership fosters an environment where social activities are frequent and integral to the church's mission. Reddit

For families, the Wednesday playgroup is a standout feature, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere where children and parents alike can connect. This initiative is a prime example of how the church actively engages with the local community, making it more than just a place of worship but a genuine hub for social interaction. While some visitors have noted a reserved initial reception during services, the consistent praise for community events and the dedicated team suggests that finding your place within the community is very achievable through active participation. Reddit

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