St Mary’s Church

Overview

St Mary’s Church, or St Mary’s Parish Church as it is also known, is a beautiful ecclesiastical building situated within the stunning landscapes of the Lake District National Park. The church is open every day and welcomes everyone to come and admire its intricate architecture.

Designed in the 1850s, you can see the spire of the church from far and wide, and it makes for a delightful contrast against the greenery which the Lake District is known for. Walkers and cyclists are welcome to stop off and pop in along their routes.

About St Mary's Church

St Mary’s Church was built as a memorial chapel to one of the Lakes’ most famous residents, William Wordsworth, who was born in Cockermouth and lived in Grasmere.

The ornate stained-glass windows were created by Wailes of Newcastle and dedicated to him and his female family members, including his wife Mary, sister Dorothy, sister-in-law Sarah, and daughter Dora.

It’s thought that children’s author and illustrator Beatrix Potter, who spent many summers in the Lake District as a child before moving to the Lake District in 1903, would have known this church.

How old is St Mary’s Church in Ambleside?

St Mary’s Church was built in the 1850s following a design by renowned architect Sir George Gilbert Scott. Not only did he design a range of beautiful ecclesiastical buildings during his career, but London’s St Pancras Station and the Albert Memorial are also amongst his creations.

The church’s architectural style is Early Gothic, and you can see typical features of this style here, including pointed arches inside, large stained-glass windows, and the tall spire that creates a sense of upward movement.

St Mary’s Church was built for the congregation of Ambleside, who needed a larger place of worship. The railway brought many more visitors to the area, and the previous parish church, St Anne’s, was too small.

It was one of the first churches in northern England to be influenced by the Oxford Movement. This religious movement aimed to restore traditional Catholic practices and beliefs in worship.

What’s inside St Mary’s Church?

Inside the church, you’ll find many interesting features, including:

Hope Jones organ – notable for being one of the first utilised electric actions
14 northern saints carved into the choir stalls
Virgin and Child statue by artist Josephine de Vasconcellos
Painting of the ancient Rushbearing Ceremony by students from the Royal College of Art, created during the Second World War

What is there for children to do at St Mary’s Church?

Families with small children will enjoy the play area inside the church. Here, you’ll find a selection of toys and games, including building blocks and a doll’s house.

Outside St Mary’s Church, you can explore the churchyard. It is a haven for local wildlife, so see whether you can spot anything during your visit.

What services are there at St Mary’s Church?

St Mary’s Church falls under the Church of England denomination and has two services on a Sunday, which everyone is welcome to join, regardless of their religion or personal beliefs.

Reflective service

Time: 9.15am, every Sunday

Much-loved hymns
Opportunities to take communion
Stillness and reflection
Scripture readings

Contemporary Service

Time: 11am every Sunday

Informal service
Contemporary worship
Opportunities to participate and respond

What is Rushbearing at St Mary’s Church?

Rushbearing is an annual festival that used to take place throughout England but is now a tradition that only occurs in a few locations. It celebrates the ancient tradition of replacing the rushes on the church floors. Bearings are made from rushes from nearby lakes, which are decorated with flowers and other greenery.

Rushbearing typically takes place on the first Saturday in June, and the procession starts from the Primary School on Vicarage Road. Accompanied by a brass band, children and clergy carrying bearings make their way through the streets of Ambleside, eventually arriving at St Mary’s Church.

At the church, the bearings are displayed, and a short service is held to give thanks. After the service, there’s a sports event for children on the School Playing Field. As part of this, there are flat, fun, and novelty races as well as a junior fell race. It’s a fantastic day out in the local community.

Is St Mary’s Church accessible?

St Mary’s Church is accessible. There are ramps for wheelchair access, hearing loops, and accessible toilets.

Walks from St Mary’s Church

If you want to add a walk to your visit, there are a number of routes starting from St Mary’s Church, including:

Rydal and Ambleside circular (6.4 miles/10.3 kilometres)
Ambleside loop (3.5 miles/5.6 kilometres)
Wansfell Pike (7.7 miles/12.4 kilometres)

How to get to St Mary’s Church from YHA Ambleside

There are several options available for getting to St Mary’s Church:

Walking: St Mary’s Church is around a half an hour walk from YHA Ambleside. The walk is through the town centre.

Public transport: You can catch the 555 or 559 bus from Ambleside Pier (Waterhead) just outside the hostel, alighting on Vicarage Road. The journey takes around 15 minutes.

Driving: It’s around a five-minute drive from the Youth Hostel to St Mary’s Church. There is on-street parking available.