St Mary's Church, Rotherhithe
An 18th-century riverside church in Rotherhithe with deep maritime roots and Mayflower connections, offering quiet reflection and centuries of history by the Thames.
Standing on the banks of the Thames in Rotherhithe, St Mary’s Church is an 18th-century Anglican parish church with deep maritime roots. Built in 1714–15 on a site with over 700 years of documented church history, it is famed for its Mayflower connections, including the burial of Captain Christopher Jones. The church combines Georgian brick architecture with a later tower and spire, a fine 1764 organ, and a tranquil churchyard that has long served the riverside community.
A brief summary to St Mary's Church, Rotherhithe
- Saint Marychurch St, London, SE16 4HZ, GB
- +442073943394
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check the church’s website or noticeboard for service times and any special events; visiting outside services allows for a quieter, more contemplative experience.
- Take time to explore the churchyard and look for the Mayflower-related memorials, including the grave of Captain Christopher Jones and the modern Mayflower memorial.
- Look for the ship’s masts disguised as pillars inside the church and the 16th-century German stained glass in the east window, both distinctive features of the interior.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Thames Path or through nearby Southwark to make a full riverside outing.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport (Train/Overground)
Take the London Overground to Canada Water station, then walk about 10–15 minutes along the Thames Path and through Rotherhithe. The route is flat and well signed, suitable for most visitors, and takes you past modern developments and riverside views before reaching the church.
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Public Transport (Bus)
Several London bus routes serve the Rotherhithe area; alight near Rotherhithe Street or St Marychurch Street and walk a few minutes to the church. The walk is short and on level pavement, but some streets are narrow and can be busy with local traffic.
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Walking from Central London
From central London, a riverside walk along the Thames Path via Tower Bridge and Shad Thames takes about 1–1.5 hours to reach Rotherhithe. The path is well maintained and scenic, but can be exposed to wind and rain; wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for variable weather.
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Cycling
Cycle along the Thames Path or quiet back streets from central or south London; there are cycle racks near the church. The route is mostly flat, but some sections can be crowded, especially on weekends, and the narrow streets around the church require careful navigation.
St Mary's Church, Rotherhithe location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about St Mary's Church, Rotherhithe
A Church by the River
St Mary’s Church, Rotherhithe, stands on the south bank of the Thames in a quiet street just steps from the water’s edge. Its simple, rectangular Georgian brick form, with white stone dressings and large clear windows, reflects the practical elegance of early 18th-century church architecture. Designed by John James, an associate of Sir Christopher Wren, the current building replaced a medieval church that had stood on the same site since at least 1282. Raised above the surrounding low-lying ground, the church was rebuilt to escape frequent flooding from the nearby river, and visitors still climb several steps to enter. The distinctive square tower and slender spire, completed in the mid-18th century, remain a local landmark, visible from the riverside and protected so that mariners can still see the clock face from the water.Layers of History
The site’s history stretches back far beyond the current church. Roman bricks found during 19th- and 20th-century works suggest that some form of building has stood here for nearly two millennia, possibly a Roman structure or early Christian place of worship. The medieval church, which served the riverside community for centuries, left fragments in the present building: chalk and flint walls in the crypt, and old stone blocks incorporated into the walls near the organ. A 1623 drawing of the old church is the only surviving image of its appearance, preserving a glimpse of a building that once overlooked the bustling Thames. When the medieval church became dangerously dilapidated, the parishioners of Rotherhithe raised funds themselves to rebuild, creating the church that stands today.Maritime and Mayflower Connections
St Mary’s is closely tied to Britain’s maritime past, particularly the story of the Mayflower and the Pilgrim Fathers. Captain Christopher Jones, master of the Mayflower, is buried in the churchyard; he died in Rotherhithe in 1622 after returning from the historic voyage to North America. Three of the ship’s four owners—Jones, Richard Gardener and John Moore—are also buried here, and Gardener and John Clarke, the ship’s second in command, were married at St Mary’s. A modern memorial in the churchyard commemorates the Mayflower’s links to Rotherhithe, where the ship was later broken up after its final voyage. These connections make the church a quiet but powerful place for those interested in early transatlantic history and the lives of those who shaped it.Inside the Church
The interior of St Mary’s has been shaped by centuries of use and restoration. Originally built to seat about 1,000 people, with galleries, box pews and a large three-decker pulpit, it was thoroughly reordered in 1876 by William Butterfield in the spirit of the Oxford Movement. The present layout features a barrel-vaulted plaster ceiling, dark wooden pews, and a chancel with richly carved furnishings. The four massive pillars supporting the roof are not stone, but old ship’s masts covered in plaster—a subtle nod to the church’s dockside setting. Above the altar, the east window holds 16th-century German stained glass depicting the Assumption of Our Lady, said to have arrived in Rotherhithe during the Napoleonic Wars. The church also houses a fine 1764 organ by John Byfield, whose tonal qualities have been carefully preserved.Life of a Living Church
St Mary’s remains an active Anglican parish church, serving the local community of Rotherhithe. Regular services, concerts and community events take place within its walls, and the churchyard continues to be a place of quiet reflection and remembrance. The churchyard itself is historically significant: an additional burial ground was created across the road in 1821, and the watchhouse that once guarded it still stands nearby, one of the few such structures remaining in inner London. Today, visitors are welcome to explore the church and churchyard, to admire its architecture, to trace its maritime links, and to experience the peaceful atmosphere of a riverside church that has stood as a spiritual and communal anchor for centuries.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)
0.3 km
Historic Thames foreshore site where pirates and maritime criminals faced grim justice under Admiralty law for over 400 years.
The Captain Kidd
0.4 km
Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.
Execution Dock House
0.5 km
Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.
Execution Dock
0.6 km
A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
Roman Wall of Londinium
1.7 km
Explore the towering Roman Wall at Tower Hill, a striking relic that shaped London’s ancient cityscape and echoes 2,000 years of history.
Wakefield Tower
1.7 km
Medieval royal tower steeped in 13th-century splendor and tragic history within the Tower of London.
London Wall
1.8 km
Explore London Wall, an ancient Roman landmark revealing the rich history of Londinium amidst the modern cityscape of London.
Tower Hill Memorial
1.9 km
Honouring 35,000 merchant seafarers with no grave but the sea—a dual memorial to two world wars.
1 Tower Hl Ter
1.9 km
Historic urban landmark near Tower of London, blending centuries of British heritage with maritime memorials and modern city life.
St Mary’s, Whitechapel (The White Chapel)
1.9 km
Historic site of St Mary’s Whitechapel, the iconic White Chapel that shaped East London’s identity and now commemorated as Altab Ali Park.
St Olave's Church, Hart Street
2.1 km
Medieval survivor where Viking legend, plague history, and literary fame converge in a Gothic gem.
Mitre Square
2.2 km
Mitre Square: A serene retreat in London’s financial district, blending rich history with beautiful landscapes for an unforgettable city experience.
Custom House
2.2 km
Historic Custom House on London’s Thames waterfront, a grand 19th-century customs hub echoing centuries of maritime trade and empire.
Billingsgate Roman House & Baths
2.2 km
Explore the rich Roman heritage at Billingsgate Roman House & Baths, a fascinating museum revealing ancient life in the heart of London.
St Margaret Pattens Eastcheap
2.3 km
Medieval guild church with Wren's only 'true spire'—a 950-year sanctuary in the City's financial heart.
Unmissable attractions to see
Brunel Museum
0.1 km
Discover the pioneering Thames Tunnel and Brunel family legacy in London’s historic Engine House museum.
Thames River Police Museum
0.4 km
Explore the historic Thames River Police Museum in Wapping, showcasing over 200 years of pioneering river policing on London’s iconic Thames.
Prospect of Whitby
0.7 km
Step into London’s oldest riverside pub, where centuries of maritime history, pirate tales, and royal visits blend with stunning Thames views.
Shadwell Basin
0.7 km
Historic London dock transformed into a vibrant waterside community hub for leisure, water sports, and scenic urban living.
Ornamental Canal
0.8 km
A serene 1.2 km canal in Wapping preserving London's dockland heritage with historic walls, art, and tranquil waterside walks.
Shadwell Basin
0.9 km
Historic London dock turned vibrant waterside community offering scenic walks, water sports, and rich maritime heritage.
Cable Street Mural
1.1 km
A vivid, monumental mural in East London commemorating the 1936 Battle of Cable Street and the community’s defiant stand against fascism.
The Kernel Spa Road
1.2 km
Discover The Kernel Spa Road: London's vibrant brewery taproom blending craft beers with Japanese-inspired comfort food in a stylish industrial setting.
Shad Thames
1.3 km
Historic riverside charm meets modern luxury in Shad Thames, London’s iconic Victorian warehouse quarter by Tower Bridge.
Ratcliff Beach
1.3 km
Discover Ratcliff Beach, a hidden pebble shore on the Thames with stunning Canary Wharf views and rich maritime history in East London.
Brew By Numbers Tasting Room
1.3 km
Discover innovative craft beers and a relaxed vibe at Brew By Numbers Tasting Room, a must-visit for beer lovers in Bermondsey.
St Katharine Docks Marina
1.4 km
Explore the vibrant St Katharine Docks Marina, a picturesque destination in London offering dining, shopping, and stunning riverside views.
Jack The Ripper Museum
1.4 km
Explore the chilling history of Victorian London's infamous Jack the Ripper murders in a hauntingly immersive museum experience.
Ropewalk
1.5 km
Discover Ropewalk, the vibrant and historic heart of Maltby Street Market where London’s industrial charm meets world-class street food.
Maltby Street Market
1.5 km
Discover Maltby Street Market, a vibrant weekend food haven beneath historic Bermondsey railway arches, offering global street food and artisan delights.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Story
1.7 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
La Dame de Pic London
1.9 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
2.2 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
2.2 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
14 Hills
2.2 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
2.5 km
Experience freshly handcrafted Japanese udon and crispy tempura in a lively open kitchen setting at Marugame Udon Middlesex Street, London’s authentic udon destination.
George
2.5 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
Nomadic community
2.6 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
Billingsgate Market
2.9 km
Experience the bustling heart of London’s seafood trade at Billingsgate Market, a historic wholesale hub alive with tradition and fresh catches.
Lyle's
2.9 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Mercato Metropolitano
3.1 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
Madison
3.2 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Da Terra Restaurant
3.2 km
Experience innovative two-Michelin-star Modern European cuisine with vibrant Brazilian influences in the heart of East London’s historic Bethnal Green.
Brawn
3.3 km
Seasonal Mediterranean small plates and natural wines in a lively, vintage-inspired Shoreditch setting on Columbia Road.
The Clove Club
3.4 km
Two Michelin stars meet innovative modern British cuisine in a historic Shoreditch Town Hall setting with a unique urban garden.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tower of London Shop
1.9 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Traders Gate
1.9 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Hay's Galleria
2.1 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Petticoat Lane Market
2.3 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
Middlesex Textiles
2.3 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Fashion St
2.3 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
Commercial St
2.4 km
Historic East London artery blending industrial heritage, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks in the heart of Spitalfields.
The Brick Lane Vintage Market
2.5 km
Explore the UK’s largest underground vintage market, where fashion history meets East London creativity and every visit promises a unique find.
Backyard Market
2.5 km
Discover handmade treasures and vibrant street culture at Backyard Market, Brick Lane’s creative heart.
DPUS Designer Outlet
2.5 km
Authentic designer fashion outlet in Shoreditch’s historic Old Truman Brewery, blending luxury style with urban culture and unbeatable prices.
Sclater Street Market
2.5 km
Vintage treasures and eclectic finds in the heart of Shoreditch's bohemian marketplace.
Spitalfields Market
2.6 km
Historic yet vibrant, Spitalfields Market blends East London’s rich heritage with a lively mix of food, art, and shopping all week long.
The Truman Brewery Markets
2.6 km
Historic brewery turned vibrant markets on Brick Lane, offering vintage treasures, global street food, and creative culture in East London.
Brick Lane Souvenirs
2.6 km
Discover affordable, stylish London souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Brick Lane’s vibrant cultural scene.
Borough Yards
2.7 km
Discover Borough Yards, a lively London district blending historic railway arches with cutting-edge shopping, dining, and culture near Borough Market.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Midnight Apothecary
0.1 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
Nine Lives
2.0 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
2.1 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
2.1 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
The Bell
2.2 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
Moonshine Saloon
2.2 km
Step into London’s Moonshine Saloon for an immersive Wild West cocktail adventure with live actors, games, and bespoke drinks made from your own spirits.
Discount Suit Company
2.3 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
2.3 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
The Old School Yard
2.4 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
The Bootlegger
2.4 km
Step into The Bootlegger’s hidden Lime Street basement for expertly crafted cocktails, live jazz, and a true 1920s speakeasy vibe in the heart of London.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
2.4 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
The Astronomer, EC1
2.5 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
Dirty Dicks
2.6 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
2.6 km
Discover Shoreditch’s secret speakeasy behind a fridge door, where quirky vintage charm meets expertly crafted cocktails and lively 80s beats.
Demon, Wise & Partners
2.7 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
E1
1.0 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Club 701
2.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
The Steel Yard
2.7 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
The Venue
3.1 km
A vibrant multi-room nightclub in New Cross, London, blending diverse music, cutting-edge sound, and a welcoming atmosphere since 1989.
The Hatch Club
3.2 km
A late-night New Cross club with a roomy dancefloor, VIP sections and bass-forward DJ nights—built for parties and private events.
Ministry of Sound
3.2 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
Corsica Studios
3.2 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
The Hoxton Pony
3.2 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Trafik
3.4 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
XOYO LONDON
3.5 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Basing House - Shoreditch
3.5 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
The Bunker
3.6 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
3.7 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
American Express Invites Lounge
4.0 km
A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.
Oliver's Jazz Bar
4.0 km
Experience the soulful rhythms and vibrant atmosphere at Oliver's Jazz Bar, where great music meets delightful drinks in the heart of London.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Mindfulness
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
- Business Friendly
