Church of St Mary

The Church of St Mary the Virgin in Wellingborough is an Anglican parish church on Knox Road, and one of the most remarkable works of Sir Ninian Comper. It is listed at Grade I, the highest category of protection in England, and it is still an active place of worship.

What makes this church special?

It is a rare example of a large Perpendicular Gothic church built in the twentieth century. Construction began in 1908 and, according to most sources, finished in 1930. The Northamptonshire Historic Environment Record, however, says the building was completed by 1924, so published dates differ slightly. The architect was Sir Ninian Comper, widely admired for his church interiors, and the project was largely financed by the Misses Sharman of Wellingborough.

The church belongs to the Anglo-Catholic tradition. Its design and furnishings were shaped by the Oxford Movement and the Victorian revival of ritual in the Church of England.

What does it look like outside?

The walls are ironstone ashlar with limestone dressings under a lead roof. The massive ironstone tower can be seen from miles around and acts as a landmark for this part of town.

What should you look for inside?

The interior is the main reason to visit. Comper designed all the internal fittings, which gives the whole church a rare unity.

• The rood screen is richly decorated in blue and gold. It has a triple outer arcade with matching pairs of inner arches, in an early Renaissance style with Gothic decoration. Above it stands a crucifix flanked by figures of St Mary and St John.
• A gilded baldacchino over the altar, with a matching altar frontal.
• An exotic organ case finished in the same gilded manner.

A few historical facts

The ecclesiastical parish was created by Order in Council on 12 December 1904, taken from the old parish of All Saints. The church was listed on 9 June 1970.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the church? On Knox Road in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, England.

Is it still in use? Yes, it is an active Church of England parish church, so check with the parish about visiting times.

Who designed it? Sir Ninian Comper, who also designed its internal fittings.

When was it built? Work started in 1908. Completion is usually given as 1930, although the local heritage record suggests 1924.

Is it a listed building? Yes, it is Grade I listed.

Who is it for?

The church suits anyone interested in sacred architecture, art history, or interiors conceived by a single designer. Combine a visit with a walk around Wellingborough, and take time over the gilded rood screen, which is the most striking feature.