St. Mary's Church, Walthamstow

St Mary's Church in Walthamstow is the ancient parish church of Walthamstow Village, a conservation area in east London. It is a Church of England church with roots in the 12th century, which makes it one of the oldest buildings in this part of the capital.

What is St Mary's Church in Walthamstow?

St Mary's is a working Anglican parish church standing in the heart of Walthamstow Village, the historic core of the wider district. The village keeps a different character from the busy streets around it, and the church is its oldest landmark. Its founder was Ralph de Toni, and it began as a manorial church. After his death his widow, Alice, gave it to Holy Trinity Priory in Aldgate.

How old is the church?

The foundation dates to the 12th century. The church's own history places the construction between 1103 and 1126, while the Open House programme gives around 1108. Sources differ slightly on the exact year, so treat the date as the early 12th century. Of the original Norman building, only some pillar bases survive, along with the chisel marks left on them by the masons.

What changed over the centuries?

The church was rebuilt and extended many times. Around 1535 Sir George Monoux rebuilt the top of the tower in Tudor brick, and in the same year a legacy from Robert Thorne paid for a rebuilt south aisle. Galleries were added in the 18th century. During the Second World War the south roof was damaged, and the gallery on that side was dismantled to carry out repairs. A refurbishment and a new extension were completed in 2023.

What can you see inside?

The church holds more than one hundred and fifty brasses and monuments. The oldest dates from 1436, so the collection spans several centuries of local history. The largest and most imposing is the Trafford monument, erected in 1689. Another point of interest is the marble font, where William Morris, the designer and writer, was baptised in 1834.

Why visit?

• It is one of the oldest surviving buildings in Walthamstow, with Norman traces still visible at the base of the pillars.
• The collection of brasses and monuments, from 1436 onward, is unusually large for a parish church.
• It sits in Walthamstow Village, so a visit combines easily with a walk through the conservation area.
• It has a link to William Morris through the font.

Practical information

The church is located at 51.58507, -0.01187 in Walthamstow Village, east London. It is a place of worship in regular use, so check opening times and any service schedule before you go. The church takes part in the Open House programme, which is one way to see it.

Frequently asked questions

When was St Mary's Church in Walthamstow founded? In the 12th century. The church's history gives 1103 to 1126, and Open House lists around 1108.

Is anything of the Norman church left? Yes, but very little: some pillar bases and the chisel marks on them.

What is the oldest monument inside? The oldest brass or monument dates from 1436. In total the church has over one hundred and fifty.

Who was baptised in the church font? William Morris, in 1834.

Which monument is the largest? The Trafford monument, erected in 1689.