St. Mary's, Harrow on the Hill

St Mary's, Harrow on the Hill is a historic parish church crowning the hill in northwest London. It serves as the Borough and Parish Church of Harrow, and its spire is a landmark visible from far around. The building belongs to the Church of England and is Grade I listed, the highest level of heritage protection in England.

Why visit St Mary's?

It is one of the oldest places of worship in west London. The church combines Norman remains, thirteenth-century Gothic and a major Victorian restoration, so a single visit shows several chapters of English architecture. The hilltop setting adds to the atmosphere: views open across the city, and together with neighbouring Harrow School the church forms one of the best-known scenes in this part of London.

What is the history of the church?

Lanfranc, Archbishop of Canterbury, began building a church on the hill in 1087. He died in 1089, and his successor Anselm consecrated the finished church in 1094. A skeleton dated to around the year 1000, found in 2007 in the north-west corner of the building, suggests that an even earlier church once stood here.

In the thirteenth century the work was carried on by the rector Elias de Dereham, who also worked on Salisbury Cathedral. In 1544 Archbishop Cranmer surrendered the manor of Harrow to Henry VIII, a reminder of how closely the site is tied to the wider story of England.

What can you see in the architecture?

The church is built of sandstone with a tiled roof, in the English Gothic style. The base of the tower is Norman, while the chancel and nave date from the thirteenth century. Between 1846 and 1849 the building was heavily restored under George Gilbert Scott, one of the best-known Victorian architects. Scott refaced the exterior, rebuilt the chancel and added a vestry. What you see today is the result of many centuries of alteration.

How is it connected to Harrow School?

The church stands beside Harrow School, the famous boarding school, and the two have shaped the identity of the hill for centuries. The name Harrow itself is said to come from an Old English word meaning a place of worship, which suggests the hill has long held religious importance.

How to visit

The best plan is to combine the church with a walk around the hill and the lanes of old Harrow. The church also hosts heritage events such as talks and open days, so check the parish website for current times before you go. Take your time inside and in the churchyard, and look closely at the stonework and the timber of the roofs.

Frequently asked questions

Is St Mary's a listed building? Yes, it is Grade I listed, the highest grade of protection in England.

When was the church built? Construction began in 1087 and the church was consecrated in 1094. Archaeological finds point to an even older church on the site.

Who restored the church in the nineteenth century? George Gilbert Scott, between 1846 and 1849.

Where is it? On Harrow on the Hill in northwest London, close to Harrow School.

Is it still a working church? Yes, it is a Church of England parish church with services and community events.