St Mary of Eton

St Mary of Eton is an Anglican church on Eastway in Hackney Wick, east London, and a Grade II* listed building. It was raised in the early 1890s in a medieval Gothic style for a very particular purpose: to serve a mission that Eton College organised and paid for in the East End.

What is St Mary of Eton and why was it built?

The church grew out of the Eton Mission, a charitable venture by one of England's best-known schools in a working-class district of the capital. The mission began modestly in Malford Street, in rooms over an undertaker's shop. In 1884 an iron church was put up as a temporary home. The permanent building followed a few years later and replaced it.

Who designed it and when was it built?

The present church was built between 1890 and 1892 to designs by George Frederick Bodley, working in the practice Bodley and Garner. Princess Christian laid the foundation stone on 7 June 1890, and the church was consecrated in June 1892 under the dedication of St Mary of Eton. Bodley was a leading figure of the Gothic Revival, which explains the church's medieval character despite its late Victorian date.

How has the building changed?

Between 1910 and 1912 the church was extended at the west end. Vestries and a tower were added by Cecil Hare, Bodley's successor; sources differ slightly on whether the tower was finished in 1911 or 1912. Eton House, a building for clergy and staff, dates from 1898 according to the parish history.

What happened to it in the twentieth century?

The church was badly damaged by a V1 rocket in 1944. In 1893 the mission had become a parish, and in 1953 it was formally united with the neighbouring parish of St Augustine. For that reason the full name is often given as St Mary of Eton with St Augustine. Patronage still rests with the Eton mission trustees, a lasting link with the school that founded it. Recent restoration work has taken place alongside new buildings on either side of the site.

Why visit?

The church is a good stop for anyone interested in Victorian architecture, Gothic Revival design or the social history of London's East End. Its Grade II* listing places it among the more significant listed buildings in the country. It sits on Eastway in Hackney Wick, an area known today for its canalside and creative character, so it is easy to combine with a walk through the neighbourhood.

Frequently asked questions

Is St Mary of Eton still a working church? Yes, it is an Anglican parish church, known as St Mary of Eton with St Augustine.

What does Grade II mean?* It is a listing category for particularly important buildings of more than special interest.

Who founded it? Eton College organised and funded the mission that led to the church.

Where is it? On Eastway in Hackney Wick, London. Check the parish website for current service and opening times.