About

Welcome to St Mary’s!  We are an ancient place of worship dating back over 1,000 years to when Monks first brought Christianity here, holding religious meetings out in the open around the base of a cross which existed in the church yard until about 100 years ago.  In 912 a Saxon church was erected, and our beautiful font dates from this time! 

In the 12^th century a Norman structure replaced the Saxon church to include a tower which remained until 1871 when the current, 137 feet high, ‘Philpotts’ tower replaced it.  We facilitate Tower Tours providing exceptional 360 ̊ views across Lyme Bay, the English Riviera coast and as far as Dartmoor. 

Tragically, in 1943, the church was bombed with the loss of 21 children and 3 Sunday school teachers.  Dedicated in their memory, we use The Holy Innocents Chapel for prayer and a weekly Eucharist (see the events page).

Worship is our first duty, to spread joy through nurturing God’s word.  We warmly welcome visitors to worship with us in the Anglo Catholic tradition whether you are a regular church goer or are exploring the wonder of spirituality found within Christianity. 

We host events including historic, locality-based talks and our renown Tower Tours where you can find evidence of where the real Harry Potter and his friends created the magical music of church bells.  We also host performances ranging from local choirs and musicians to world class, internationally acclaimed instrumentalists.  See the events page.

Welcome to the magic of St Marychurch where you will find quaint, independent shops close to the English Riviera attractions Bygones, Babbacombe Model Village, Babbacombe Downs, the Cliff Railway and Oddicombe Beach. 

With Father Nick’s very best wishes for a truly blessed visit.

Thanks to our sponsors:

• Ambrosian Strings Ambrosian Strings    
• Castle accommodation https://airbnb.com/h/castle-annexe