St Mary's Church, Cilcain: A Historic Welsh Parish with Medieval Roots
Discover the medieval charm and historic roof artistry of St Mary's Church, a spiritual and architectural gem in the heart of Cilcain village.
St Mary's Church in Cilcain, Flintshire, is a remarkable Anglican church with origins dating back to the 12th or 13th century. Known for its distinctive double-naved structure and a celebrated late medieval carved roof, the church stands in a sub-circular churchyard on the village's western edge. It houses an important collection of medieval funerary fragments and features a Norman font, reflecting centuries of spiritual and architectural heritage.
A brief summary to St Mary's Church
- The Square, Mold, Cilcain, CH7 5NN, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on a Sunday morning to experience one of the varied traditional services held in the south aisle under the medieval roof.
- Take time to examine the Norman font near the pulpit, a rare and fascinating artifact buried for centuries.
- Explore the medieval funerary fragments displayed inside the church, offering insight into local noble heritage.
- Admire the 19th-century lych gate and hearse house in the churchyard, reflecting the village’s historical customs.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Mold to Cilcain, which runs approximately every 1-2 hours. The journey takes around 25 to 35 minutes. Note that services may be limited on Sundays and public holidays. A single fare costs about £3 to £5.
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Car
Driving from Mold to Cilcain takes about 15 minutes via local roads. Parking is available near The Square, but spaces are limited, so early arrival is recommended. The roads are rural and may be narrow in places.
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Walking
For the adventurous, a scenic 1.5-hour walk from Mold to Cilcain is possible, mostly on quiet country lanes and footpaths. Terrain is gentle but may be muddy in wet weather. Suitable for those with moderate fitness and proper footwear.
St Mary's 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's Church
Ancient Origins and Architectural Evolution
St Mary's Church in Cilcain is steeped in history, with its earliest fabric believed to date from the late 12th or early 13th century. The church is first documented in the Lincoln Taxation of 1291 as 'Ecclia de Kylkeyn,' valued at 11 pounds, 1 shilling, and 8 pence. It occupies a distinctive sub-circular churchyard on the western edge of the village, a shape often indicative of pre-Norman ecclesiastical sites. The church's double-naved layout features a north nave, thought to be the oldest part, and a south nave added in the 15th century, along with a western tower from the same period.The Medieval Roof and Interior Highlights
One of the church’s most celebrated features is its ornately carved late medieval roof, believed to have been sourced from Basingwerk Abbey following its dissolution in 1535. This roof, with its intricate hammerbeam angels, creates a striking visual centerpiece within the south aisle, where most services are held. The interior also contains a remarkable Norman font, discovered buried beneath the pulpit in 1845, notable for its rare conical interior and interlaced ornamentation.Fire, Restoration, and Community Use
The north aisle suffered devastating fire damage after a Plygain service on Christmas morning in 1532, leaving it roofless for over two centuries. It was restored in the 18th century at the personal expense of the then vicar, Rev. Richard Davies, and has since been renewed for use as a meeting and service space. The south aisle remains the main worship area, hosting a variety of services throughout the month and midweek communions, reflecting the church’s ongoing role in village life.Medieval Funerary Artifacts and Local Heritage
St Mary’s holds a significant assemblage of medieval funerary fragments, including effigies and inscribed slabs dating from the 13th and 14th centuries. These memorials, many of local nobles and high-status individuals, provide a tangible link to the area's medieval past. The churchyard also features a hearse house from around 1810 and a 19th-century lych gate with Welsh inscriptions, adding layers to the site’s historical narrative.Spiritual and Cultural Significance Today
Beyond its architectural and historical importance, St Mary's Church remains an active place of worship within the Bro Famau group of parishes. It welcomes visitors and locals alike, offering a peaceful and inspiring environment that connects centuries of faith, art, and community. The church’s setting provides scenic views over the Vale of Clwyd, enhancing its tranquil and contemplative atmosphere.Preservation and Visitor Experience
Ongoing care and restoration efforts, notably those funded by the Buddicom family in the late 19th century, have preserved the church’s fabric and unique features. Visitors can explore the church’s rich heritage through its architecture, funerary monuments, and evocative interior details, making St Mary’s a compelling destination for those interested in medieval history, ecclesiastical art, and Welsh cultural heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Moel y Gaer
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Mold Castle
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Bryn Griffiths W M Social Club
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The Crooked Horn & rae's restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Daniel Owen Shopping Centre
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Yarn O'clock
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Staggered boutique interiors
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Rock Bottom
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The Craft Shack
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
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
- Panoramas
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
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
