St Mary's Church Wirksworth
Discover St. Mary's Church, Wirksworth: a historical gem with Anglo-Saxon carvings, medieval art, and stunning stained glass.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
St Mary's Church Wirksworth
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover St. Mary's Church, Wirksworth: a historical gem with Anglo-Saxon carvings, medieval art, and stunning stained glass.
"A surprisingly large church with a host of interesting features and excellent information boards."
Check for Events First
Confirm no events are booked before visiting to avoid disappointment . :calendar:
Utilize Information Boards
Excellent info boards and paddles make exploring easy and informative. :memo:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Anglo-Saxon Carvings
Interior
Marvel at ancient stone crosses, grave slabs, and a 7th-century coffin lid, showcasing centuries of history.
'T'owd Man' Representation
Interior
See the oldest representation of a miner in the world, a unique and iconic piece of local heritage.
Burne-Jones/Morris Stained Glass
Interior
Admire the beautiful and intricate stained glass windows, including a notable piece by Burne-Jones and Morris.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to St. Mary's
Explore Wirksworth's Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check for Events First
Confirm no events are booked before visiting to avoid disappointment. :calendar:
Utilize Information Boards
Excellent info boards and paddles make exploring easy and informative. :memo:
Donation for Leaflets
Support the church by donating for helpful leaflets and booklets. :moneybag:
Listen for Bell Ringing
Catch the practice sessions for wedding bells on Friday evenings. :bell:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check for Events First
Confirm no events are booked before visiting to avoid disappointment. :calendar:
Utilize Information Boards
Excellent info boards and paddles make exploring easy and informative. :memo:
Donation for Leaflets
Support the church by donating for helpful leaflets and booklets. :moneybag:
Listen for Bell Ringing
Catch the practice sessions for wedding bells on Friday evenings. :bell:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St. Mary's Church for its fascinating history, particularly its Anglo-Saxon carvings and the unique 'T'owd Man.' The beautiful stained glass windows and well-maintained interior are also frequently highlighted as major attractions. Some visitors have experienced disappointment due to the church being booked for events, emphasizing the need to check schedules in advance.
"This is not only a beautiful church, it is probably one of the most interesting and fascinating churches in the country. Most of the building dates from the 13th to 15th centuries but there are parts from Anglo-Saxon times. It has wonderful stained glass windows. It is particularly notable for its Anglo-Saxon carvings such as a large coffin lid from the 7th century. There are numerous other medieval carvings, stone crosses, grave slabs, tombs and most famously "T'owd Man", the oldest representation of a miner in the world. There are leaflets and information booklets available for a donation."
Nuts
"This is a surprisingly large church with a host of interesting features. The information boards are quite the best I have seen in a church and the small information/question paddles ideal for taking around the church. A projected film of the T'Owd Man unique. Even has a Burne-Jones/Morris stained glass window. Well worth a visit if you are in the area."
Roy Sirl
"Beautiful church ⛪️ it's lovely to walk around and see it clean and tidy. Peaceful even though there were quite a few people."
emma L
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Mary's Church is located in the heart of Wirksworth. If driving, there are local car parks nearby. Public transport options include local bus services that stop in the town center. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, there are several car parks available in Wirksworth town center, which are a short walk from St. Mary's Church. Some street parking may also be available, but can be limited.
Absolutely! Wirksworth is accessible by bus, and the church is centrally located within the town, making it easy to reach on foot from the bus stops.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to St. Mary's Church is generally free, but donations are highly appreciated to help with the upkeep of this historic building. Leaflets and information booklets are available for a donation.
The church is typically open during daylight hours, but it's advisable to check for any specific event closures or restricted access, especially on weekends when it might be booked for weddings or other functions.
Yes, St. Mary's Church can be booked for events such as weddings and other functions. It's important to check the church's schedule in advance if you plan to visit, as it may be closed to the public during these times.
While formal guided tours might not be regularly scheduled, the church provides excellent information boards and leaflets that act as self-guided tour aids, detailing its history and features.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Anglo-Saxon carvings, including a 7th-century coffin lid, the 'T'owd Man' (oldest miner representation), and the beautiful stained glass windows, including one by Burne-Jones and Morris.
The church has a surprisingly large interior, and while it's a historic building, efforts have been made to make it accessible. Information boards are well-placed, and the main areas are generally navigable. It's always best to contact the church directly for specific accessibility queries.
'T'owd Man' is the oldest representation of a miner in the world and is a significant historical artifact reflecting Wirksworth's mining heritage.
Basic facilities are usually available, but it's recommended to check with the church directly or inquire upon arrival for the most accurate information regarding restrooms and other amenities.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted inside St. Mary's Church, but it's always polite to be discreet and respectful of ongoing services or other visitors. Flash photography might be restricted to protect the delicate artwork and stained glass.
📸 📸 Photography
The Anglo-Saxon carvings, the 'T'owd Man,' and the detailed stained glass windows offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The exterior architecture and surrounding churchyard also provide scenic shots.
It's generally best to avoid flash photography inside churches to protect the delicate stained glass and ancient artifacts. Always check for signage or ask a church official if unsure.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, is useful for capturing both wider architectural shots and details of carvings and windows. A prime lens with a wide aperture can be great for low-light conditions inside.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the church is a place of worship and historical significance, its relatively peaceful atmosphere, even with other visitors, can be managed with children. Encourage them to look for the different figures in the stained glass windows or imagine life in Anglo-Saxon times. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to local history and the importance of preserving heritage in a tangible way.
🏛️ History Buffs & Art Enthusiasts
The artistic merit of the church is equally compelling. The stained glass windows, especially the one by Burne-Jones and Morris, are significant works of art. Combined with the unique 'T'owd Man' representation and the overall architectural grandeur, St. Mary's provides a rich and rewarding experience for anyone passionate about historical and artistic exploration. The detailed information provided on-site further enhances the learning experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The History of St. Mary's
The church is particularly renowned for its collection of Anglo-Saxon carvings. Among these are ancient stone crosses, intricately carved grave slabs, and a significant 7th-century coffin lid, offering a rare glimpse into early Christian art and burial practices. These pieces are not just historical relics but also artistic marvels, showcasing the skill of ancient craftspeople. The presence of these artifacts makes St. Mary's a crucial site for understanding the region's early history and religious development.
Beyond its Anglo-Saxon roots, St. Mary's is also celebrated for its medieval carvings, tombs, and the iconic 'T'owd Man.' This unique representation of a miner is the oldest of its kind and speaks volumes about Wirksworth's enduring connection to mining. Furthermore, the church features beautiful stained glass windows, including a notable piece by the renowned Arts and Crafts movement artists Burne-Jones and Morris, adding another layer of artistic and historical significance to this remarkable edifice.
Exploring the Artistic Treasures of St. Mary's
The Anglo-Saxon carvings are another artistic focal point. These ancient pieces, including stone crosses and grave slabs, display a raw, powerful beauty. The 7th-century coffin lid, in particular, is a remarkable example of early medieval artistry, offering insights into the craftsmanship and beliefs of the time. Complementing these are numerous other medieval carvings that add depth and character to the church's interior, each telling a silent story of the past.
Finally, the 'T'owd Man' stands out as a unique artistic and cultural icon. As the oldest representation of a miner, it is a powerful symbol of Wirksworth's heritage and the lives of its people. The church also features a projected film about 'T'owd Man,' making this historical figure accessible and engaging for modern visitors. The combination of ancient carvings, medieval artistry, and significant stained glass makes St. Mary's a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit