Little St Mary's Church, Cambridge: A Historic Sanctuary Beside Peterhouse

Origins and Early History of Little St Mary's

Little St Mary's Church, originally called St Peter-without-Trumpington Gate, has stood on its site since at least the early 12th century. Initially located just outside the medieval town boundary of Cambridge, the church was controlled by successive families until 1207, when it was granted to the Hospital of St John the Evangelist, now St John's College. This early history is intertwined with the foundation of Peterhouse, Cambridge's first college, as scholars were lodged nearby in the 1280s and used the church as their chapel. By the mid-14th century, the church was rebuilt to serve both as a parish church and the college chapel, and was rededicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Architectural Evolution and Restorations

Over the centuries, Little St Mary's underwent numerous changes. In 1632, Peterhouse built its own chapel, and Little St Mary's reverted to solely serving the parish. The church suffered significant damage during the Puritan iconoclasm of the 1640s, with many ornaments and statues destroyed. The 18th century brought wooden panelling and box pews, which were later removed during a major restoration by Sir George Gilbert Scott in the mid-19th century. Additional restorations in the late 19th century preserved much of the church's present form. The south, or Lady, Chapel was added in 1931, designed by Thomas Henry Lyon, complementing the church's historic fabric.

Notable Figures and Memorials

Little St Mary's holds historical significance through its association with notable individuals. Richard Crashaw, the metaphysical poet, served as a priest here in the 17th century while a Fellow of Peterhouse. The church is also the final resting place of Reverend Godfrey Washington, great uncle of George Washington, the first President of the United States. His memorial is prominently displayed near the main entrance. Additionally, John Stevens Henslow, a professor and mentor to Charles Darwin, was curate here in the early 19th century.

The Church Today and Its Community Role

Today, Little St Mary's remains an active Anglican parish church, open daily from early morning to early evening. The church has expanded its facilities with a parish centre built in the late 19th century and extended in recent decades to provide meeting rooms, a kitchen, and accessible amenities. The parish hall’s contemporary design respects the church’s historic architecture, featuring oak cladding and a glazed connection that reveals medieval stonework. The church continues to serve both worshippers and visitors, maintaining its rich heritage while supporting community events and concerts.

Setting and Surroundings in Cambridge

Situated on Trumpington Street, Little St Mary's enjoys a prominent position adjacent to Peterhouse College, blending academic history with spiritual heritage. The churchyard and surrounding area retain elements of the medieval street layout, including remnants of the original gate referenced in the church’s early name. The location offers a tranquil urban sanctuary amid Cambridge’s bustling city centre, with views of historic college buildings and easy access to other cultural landmarks.

Architectural Highlights and Artistic Features

Little St Mary's showcases a blend of medieval and Victorian architectural elements. The tower contains medieval flintwork, while the interior reveals features such as the Victorian pulpit and stained glass windows, including the Jesse Tree motif. The Lady Chapel’s apsidal plan and glazed roof allow natural light to illuminate the space, enhancing the contemplative atmosphere. Despite past iconoclastic damage, the church retains a sense of historical continuity through its preserved stonework and carefully restored details.