St Margaret's Church, Westminster: A Tudor Gothic Jewel Beside the Abbey

Origins and Medieval Foundations

St Margaret's Church was originally founded in the 12th century by the Benedictine monks of Westminster Abbey to provide a separate worship space for the local population, allowing the monks to maintain their monastic routines undisturbed. The first building was Romanesque in style and stood until the 14th century when it was replaced during Edward III's reign. By the late 15th century, the church had fallen into disrepair, prompting a near-total reconstruction initiated by King Henry VII in 1486, completed and consecrated in 1523. This rebuilt church is considered the last in London decorated in the Catholic tradition before the Reformation.

Architectural Highlights and Artistic Features

The current structure of St Margaret's is a fine example of Perpendicular Gothic architecture, characterized by vertical lines and large windows. The church was encased in Portland stone in the 18th century, giving it a Georgian exterior while retaining its Tudor body. Notable features include the exquisite 16th-century east window, originally intended for Henry VII’s chapel in Westminster Abbey, and richly decorated interiors restored by Sir George Gilbert Scott in the 19th century. The church also contains commemorative stained-glass windows and memorials that reflect its long history.

Historical and Political Significance

Since 1614, St Margaret's has served as the parish church of the House of Commons, symbolizing its close ties to British governance. It has witnessed significant historical events, including the prayers led by Winston Churchill at the end of World War II. The church has been the site of notable weddings, such as those of diarist Samuel Pepys, poet John Milton, and statesman Winston Churchill. It is also the final resting place of prominent figures like printer William Caxton and explorer Sir Walter Raleigh.

Relationship with Westminster Abbey and Royal Peculiar Status

St Margaret's shares a unique relationship with Westminster Abbey, originally functioning as part of the Benedictine monastery complex. It was exempt from episcopal authority, being a 'royal peculiar' under the sovereign's jurisdiction until the 19th century. Its location adjacent to the Abbey and the Palace of Westminster places it at the heart of London’s religious and political life, contributing to its designation as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site encompassing the Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey.

Survival and Restoration Through the Centuries

The church has undergone several restorations and alterations over the centuries, including repairs after damage sustained during World War II bombings. Despite these changes, much of the Tudor-era structure remains intact. The 18th-century rebuild of the northwest tower and the addition of porches in the 19th century have contributed to the church’s distinctive blend of architectural styles, reflecting its evolving role and the care taken to preserve its heritage.

Visiting Experience and Cultural Atmosphere

Visitors to St Margaret’s encounter a tranquil yet historically rich environment, where the solemnity of worship blends with centuries of British history. The church’s stained-glass windows cast colorful light across its interiors, and the proximity to Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament underscores its significance. As the parish church of the Commons, it remains a living place of worship and a symbol of continuity within the heart of London’s political landscape.