St Mary Redcliffe Church: Bristol's Gothic Masterpiece
Discover Bristol’s iconic Gothic marvel with soaring spire, rich maritime heritage, and over 800 years of spiritual and architectural splendor.
St Mary Redcliffe Church in Bristol is a stunning 14th-century Gothic parish church renowned for its soaring spire, intricate stained glass, and rich maritime heritage. With over 800 years of continuous worship, it stands as a Grade I listed architectural gem, celebrated for its vaulted ceilings, carved bosses, and historic connections to explorers like John Cabot. Visitors can admire its elegant stonework, peaceful ambience, and vibrant history in the heart of Redcliffe.
A brief summary to St Mary Redcliffe Church
- The Parish Office, 12 Colston Parade, Bristol, Redcliffe, BS1 6RA, GB
- +441172310060
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit the north porch to admire its rare hexagonal design and detailed medieval stone carvings.
- Take a guided tour to access hidden areas and learn about the church’s rich history and famous figures.
- Look for the medieval labyrinth carved into the nave ceiling’s gilded bosses, a unique feature in England.
- Explore the church’s maritime connections, including the whalebone from John Cabot’s voyage and stained glass displays.
- Attend the annual Rush Sunday service to experience a centuries-old Bristol tradition with fragrant rushes and floral posies.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Several city buses serve the Redcliffe area with frequent stops near Colston Parade, including routes 1, 2, and 3. Travel times from Bristol city center are approximately 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost around £2-£4. Accessibility varies by bus model.
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Train
Bristol Temple Meads station is about 2.5 km from St Mary Redcliffe. From the station, a taxi or bus ride takes 10-15 minutes. Taxi fares range from £6-£10. The station is fully accessible.
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Walking
From Bristol city center, walking to St Mary Redcliffe takes about 25-30 minutes along mostly flat, urban terrain. The route is suitable for most fitness levels and wheelchair users, with paved sidewalks and pedestrian crossings.
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Taxi / Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services operate throughout Bristol with typical fares from the city center to St Mary Redcliffe around £7-£12 depending on traffic. Vehicles are generally accessible, but availability varies.
St Mary Redcliffe Church location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St Mary Redcliffe Church
A Storied Foundation and Maritime Legacy
Christian worship has taken place on the site of St Mary Redcliffe Church for over eight centuries, with the earliest parts of the present building dating back to the late 12th century. The church’s name derives from its striking position atop a red sandstone cliff overlooking the original Port of Bristol, a vital medieval maritime hub. This location established the church as a spiritual anchor for seafarers who prayed for safe voyages and gave thanks upon return. The prosperous merchant community of Bristol, including notable figures like William Canynges, played a pivotal role in funding its construction and embellishment, linking the church closely to Bristol’s historic maritime trade and exploration.Architectural Grandeur and Gothic Splendor
St Mary Redcliffe is widely regarded as one of England’s finest examples of Gothic architecture. Its soaring 89-meter spire, the tallest building in Bristol and the third highest parish church spire in the country, dominates the city skyline. The church’s cruciform layout features pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses characteristic of the Gothic style. Inside, visitors are greeted by a magnificent nave ceiling adorned with 1,200 intricately carved and gilded bosses, including England’s only medieval labyrinth carving. The north porch, with its rare hexagonal outer section dating from 1325, is a highlight, alongside medieval stained glass windows and a striking 1960s east window.Historical Figures and Cultural Significance
The church’s history is intertwined with significant historical personalities. John Cabot, the explorer who sailed from Bristol to discover Newfoundland, is commemorated here with a whalebone and stained glass. William Canynges, a wealthy merchant and five-time Mayor of Bristol, contributed extensively to the church’s construction and is buried within its south transept. Admiral William Penn, whose son founded Pennsylvania, is also memorialized here. The church survived damage during a lightning strike in 1446 and the Bristol Blitz in World War II, preserving its historical fabric for future generations.A Welcoming Spiritual and Cultural Space
Open daily, St Mary Redcliffe invites visitors to reflect, pray, or simply admire its architectural beauty. The church offers a tranquil atmosphere amid the bustling city, with informative displays about its rich heritage and the merchants who shaped Bristol. Annual traditions like Rush Sunday celebrate its medieval past, while recent projects have addressed historical controversies, including the removal of stained glass linked to Edward Colston. Guided tours provide deeper insights into hidden spaces and the church’s evolving story.Artistic Details and Sacred Features
The interior is a feast for the eyes, featuring ornate wooden pews, medieval carvings, and a large 13th-century stone font with carved foliage. The church’s stained glass spans centuries, from 14th-century fragments to vibrant 20th-century installations. Its light-filled clerestory windows enhance the sense of verticality and grace. The Lady Chapel and American Chapel, restored with international support, add to the church’s layered history and global connections.Enduring Legacy and Community Role
St Mary Redcliffe continues to serve as a vibrant parish church and cultural landmark. Its Grade I listed status reflects its outstanding architectural and historical importance. The church remains central to the Redcliffe community, hosting worship, events, and educational projects. Its presence on the red cliff overlooking the Avon River is a lasting symbol of Bristol’s maritime heritage and spiritual life, inviting all who visit to experience its timeless beauty and profound history.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bristol Ferry
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Prince Street Bridge
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Bristol Harbour Railway
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Templar Stone
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Royal Talbot Buildings
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Bristol Bridge
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Historic England - Bristol Office
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Fermentation Buildings
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Cheese Lane Shot Tower
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King George V Memorial Fountain
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Medieval Vaults
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The Matthew of Bristol
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Castle Wharf
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Old City Walls
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Watershed
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Unmissable attractions to see
Redcliffe Caves
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Welsh Back
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Queen Square
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Temple Church
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Floating Harbour
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TimeTrail
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Bristol Old Vic
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Narrow Quay
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M Shed
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Pero's Bridge
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Bristol city centre
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Lloyds Amphitheatre
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Bristol Aquarium
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The Bristol Wheel
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Millennium Square
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Essential places to dine
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Pasture
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Harbour House - Restaurant, Bar & Terrace
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Riverstation
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Hole In The Wall Bristol
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Adelina Yard
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Casa Bristol
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Don Giovanni's
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Three Brothers Burgers
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Aqua Welshback
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MUSE Brasserie - Bristol
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Rick's
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The River Grille
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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This Feeling
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Fig1
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Riff Raff Gifts The Bong Shop
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Home Grown Pop Up Gift Shop at Windmill Hill City Farm
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uchi clothing co
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Japonicat
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Quadrant Trading
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Memories
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Urban Fox
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Orendo
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Prior Shop - Cabot Circus (Independent Superstore)
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Small Bar
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The Architect
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The Clockwork Rose
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The Rummer
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
