St Mary’s Church

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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