St Mary’s Church Nottingham: A Majestic Medieval Landmark
Explore Nottingham’s grand medieval parish church, rich in Gothic architecture, historic tombs, and stained glass celebrating centuries of faith and community.
St Mary’s Church in Nottingham is the city’s largest medieval building, dating back over 500 years. Built in the Perpendicular Gothic style, it features soaring pillars, magnificent stained glass, and historic tombs. This Anglican parish church has been central to Nottingham’s religious, civic, and cultural life, witnessing events from medieval guilds to the founding of the Quakers and connections to the lace industry.
A brief summary to St Mary’s Church Nottingham
- High Pavement, Nottingham, NG1 1HN, GB
- +441159582105
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-2:30 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-2:30 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-2:30 pm
- Thursday 11 am-2:30 pm
- Friday 11 am-2:30 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-12:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Lady Chapel to see the stained glass window honoring Nottingham’s lace-making heritage.
- Look for the glass panel near the north door revealing Norman church stones beneath the floor.
- Explore the medieval tombs in the north and south transepts, including the elaborately carved Thurland tomb.
- Attend a service or event to experience the church’s active role in Nottingham’s community life.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take Nottingham’s tram system to the Lace Market stop, approximately a 10-minute ride from the city center. From there, it’s a 5-minute walk to St Mary’s Church. Trams run frequently with tickets costing around £2.50.
-
Bus
Several bus routes serve High Pavement, including numbers 35 and 56, with a travel time of 15–20 minutes from Nottingham Railway Station. Buses run every 10–15 minutes on weekdays, with fares around £2.
-
Taxi
A taxi from Nottingham city center to St Mary’s Church takes about 5–10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £6–£10.
-
Walking
If you are staying nearby, walking to St Mary’s Church is easy and pleasant, taking about 15 minutes from Nottingham city center along mostly flat, paved streets.
St Mary’s Church Nottingham location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St Mary’s Church Nottingham
Architectural Grandeur Rooted in History
St Mary’s Church stands as Nottingham’s ancient Parish and Civic Church, with origins mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086. The current building, constructed between 1386 and 1475, is believed to be at least the third church on this historic site. It is a prime example of the Perpendicular Gothic style, characterized by slender ribbed pillars, large multi-light windows, and a Latin cross layout with a tower at the crossing. The church’s west front was rebuilt in classical style in 1726 but restored to its Gothic design in 1843, preserving its medieval essence.Interior Highlights and Medieval Treasures
Inside, the nave stretches 108 feet with soaring pillars supporting high windows and an oak roof, creating a spacious and tranquil atmosphere. A glass panel near the north door reveals stones from the Norman church that preceded the current structure, offering a tangible link to Nottingham’s distant past. The church houses notable medieval tombs, including the Thurland and Samon tombs in the transepts, featuring elaborate alabaster carvings dating back to the early 15th century.Stained Glass and Artistic Legacy
St Mary’s is renowned for its 37 stained and painted glass windows, containing 384 lights depicting biblical scenes such as the Life and Teachings of Christ, the Acts of the Apostles, Parables, and Miracles. Despite damage during the Puritan era, restoration efforts from the 19th century revived the windows’ educational and atmospheric roles. The Lady Chapel, added in 1912, features a stained glass window celebrating Nottingham’s lace-making heritage, linking the church to the city’s industrial past.A Hub of Civic and Religious Life
Beyond its architectural and artistic significance, St Mary’s has played a vital civic role. It served as a venue for legal and municipal functions, including mayoral elections and corporation ceremonies. The church was also connected to charitable efforts, such as founding a grammar school in 1512 that evolved into Nottingham High School. In the 17th century, it witnessed the ministry of George Fox, founder of the Quaker movement, who famously challenged the church’s preaching here.Historical Resonance and Social Impact
St Mary’s reflects Nottingham’s social history, from medieval guild chapels funded by merchants to its involvement in social welfare through a workhouse established in the 18th century. Monuments within the church commemorate figures linked to the city’s diverse heritage, including George Africanus, a former child slave who became a successful merchant. The church’s enduring presence continues to embody Nottingham’s layered history and community spirit.Preservation and Continuing Worship
Today, St Mary’s remains an active Anglican parish church, carefully maintained with ongoing restoration to protect its medieval fabric and artistic treasures. The church’s blend of history, architecture, and community significance offers visitors a profound experience of Nottingham’s past and present, making it a cornerstone of the city’s cultural landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
16 Stoney Street
0.2 km
Discover 16 Stoney Street, a preserved Victorian lace warehouse in Nottingham’s historic Lace Market, echoing the city’s rich industrial heritage.
Weekday Cross Monument
0.2 km
Historic heart of Nottingham’s medieval market life, commemorating centuries of trade and community gatherings in the Lace Market district.
Citylife UK
0.2 km
Explore Nottingham with Citylife UK, your trusted travel agency for personalized experiences and local insights.
The Hockley Arts Club
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham's vibrant cocktail culture at The Hockley Arts Club, where artistry meets exceptional mixology in a stylish bar setting.
Bunkers Hill
0.3 km
Discover Bunkers Hill, Nottingham's lively pub and restaurant, offering local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Tokenhouse
0.3 km
Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
0.4 km
A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
Watson Fothergill's Office
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant Gothic Revival office of Watson Fothergill, Nottingham’s iconic Victorian architect, showcasing intricate brickwork and historic homage.
Right Lion
0.5 km
Discover Nottingham’s iconic Right Lion, a historic stone sculpture and beloved meeting point near the Council House in Old Market Square.
The Left Lion
0.5 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
St Nic's Church
0.5 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
Speakers' Corner
0.5 km
Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.
King's Walk sign
0.6 km
A pedestrianised passage where Georgian elegance meets contemporary commerce in Nottingham's historic heart.
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
0.7 km
A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
Victoria Station Clock Tower
0.8 km
A towering 100-foot clock tower preserving the grandeur and history of Nottingham's lost Victoria railway station.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Lacehouse
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Nottingham at The Lacehouse, where cocktails, brunch, and live music come together in a unique setting.
Lace Market
0.1 km
Explore Nottingham’s oldest district, the Lace Market, where industrial heritage meets vibrant creativity in a historic lace-making hub.
National Justice Museum
0.1 km
Explore five centuries of crime, punishment, and justice in Nottingham's authentic Georgian gaol and Victorian courtroom.
Lace Market Square
0.2 km
Historic heart of Nottingham’s lace industry, blending Victorian charm with vibrant cultural life and creative energy.
Nottingham Contemporary
0.2 km
Explore cutting-edge contemporary art in Nottingham’s iconic sandstone gallery with free exhibitions, lively events, and a vibrant café.
City of Caves
0.2 km
Explore Nottingham’s hidden underground world: medieval tanneries, wartime shelters and centuries of history carved into sandstone beneath the city streets.
Nottingham City Council
0.4 km
Central Nottingham’s modern civic heart, housing the City Council and vital public services in a contemporary landmark opposite the railway station.
Place
0.4 km
Empowering Nottingham communities through education, wellbeing, and creative engagement at the heart of Sneinton Market.
Inspired
0.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s historic boutique arcade blending timeless charm, independent shops, and elegant Georgian architecture in the city’s vibrant heart.
Flying Horse Walk
0.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s elegant boutique arcade blending historic charm with artisanal shops and cozy cafes in a tranquil city-centre setting.
The Exchange (Exchange Arcade)
0.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s oldest shopping arcade with exclusive boutiques beneath a stunning 200ft glass dome in the city centre.
Sneinton Market
0.4 km
Nottingham's indie creative haven: artisan stalls, vegan feasts, craft brews, and pop-up events in vibrant Sneinton Marketplace.
Hopkinson
0.4 km
A quirky blend of antiques, vintage treasures, and artisan café culture near Nottingham train station.
Sneinton Market Avenues
0.5 km
A compact, creative market quarter in Sneinton where artisan stalls, cafés and regular festivals collide in a colourful, community-driven setting.
Nottingham Council House
0.5 km
Historic Edwardian elegance in Nottingham's heart—where nine versatile rooms create unforgettable celebrations.
Essential places to dine
ViDa by Lorentes
0.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas in a cozy Lace Market basement with creative dishes, warm hospitality, and a rustic atmosphere.
Annie's Burger Shack
0.1 km
Vibrant American diner in Nottingham’s Lace Market, serving over 30 creative burgers with vegan options and craft beers in a lively, casual setting.
Iberico World Tapas
0.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas in Nottingham’s historic Shire Hall with refined flavors and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
Bistro Live Nottingham
0.1 km
Experience vibrant nightlife, delicious dining, and unforgettable celebrations all under one roof at Bistro Live Nottingham.
Pizzamisú
0.1 km
Experience authentic Neapolitan pizza and Italian charm in Nottingham’s historic High Pavement at Pizzamisú.
Anoki Restaurant Nottingham
0.2 km
Experience refined Indian cuisine in Nottingham’s Gothic House, where tradition meets elegance in every flavorful dish.
The Pelican Club
0.2 km
Experience authentic Umbrian Italian cuisine, live jazz, and crafted cocktails in Nottingham’s elegant and intimate Pelican Club.
Piccolino Nottingham
0.2 km
Elegant Italian dining with classic flavors, a vibrant cocktail bar, and alfresco terrace in Nottingham’s city centre.
Everyday People
0.2 km
MasterChef-inspired ramen with rich broths and creative fusion dishes in Nottingham’s stylish Byard Lane eatery.
baresca
0.2 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in Nottingham’s lively Baresca, where Catalan flavours meet rustic charm.
Dino
0.2 km
Modern dining and lively bar in Nottingham city centre, known for juicy burgers, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Mowgli Street Food Nottingham
0.3 km
Authentic Indian street food in a vibrant, eclectic setting with fresh flavors and a cozy atmosphere in Nottingham city centre.
Vi-Va Indian Tapas
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Indian street food culture in cozy Nottingham with Vi-Va’s flavorful tapas-style dining and warm, inviting atmosphere.
Paste Contemporary Thai Cuisine
0.3 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors with a contemporary twist in the heart of Nottingham’s vibrant Lace Market.
Mesa
0.3 km
Innovative small plates and a celebrated cheeseburger in Nottingham’s creative Hockley district, Mesa offers a lively dining experience with a modern twist.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Debbie Bryan | Nottingham Lace Market
0.2 km
Discover Nottingham’s heritage through artisan crafts, exquisite lace, and delightful tearoom treats in the heart of the Lace Market.
MAISON GB
0.2 km
Discover stylish clothing in Nottingham's Gothic House, a Victorian warehouse on historic Barker Gate amid Lace Market's tanneries, graveyards, and mail coach legacy.
Mood Outfitters
0.2 km
Discover Nottingham's boldest independent fashion at Mood Outfitters, where local designers craft unique, wearable art in the heart of Hockley's creative scene.
Void Clothing
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s premier alternative fashion destination blending music culture, unique styles, and local creativity on Carlton Street.
Your Unique Day
0.3 km
Letterbox magic on Goose Gate: bespoke cakes that deliver joy through your mailbox in Nottingham's creative heart.
Stick & Ribbon
0.3 km
Discover curated women’s fashion with a personal, sustainable touch in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate.
White Rose Hockley WR4
0.3 km
A hands‑on vintage shop in Nottingham’s Hockley where curated pre‑loved fashion and everyday treasures wait to be discovered.
White Rose Hockley WR2
0.3 km
Discover handpicked vintage treasures and sustainable style at this Hockley charity shop, where retro fashion supports noble causes in Nottingham's creative heart.
Garms Nottingham
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage streetwear and stylish outerwear at Garms Nottingham, a vibrant boutique nestled in the historic heart of Bridlesmith Gate.
Cow
0.3 km
Discover timeless threads in Nottingham's coolest vintage haven—Cow curates retro gems with style and soul on Carlton Street.
White Stuff Nottingham
0.3 km
A cheerful, independent-feel clothing store on Nottingham’s main shopping street, offering relaxed British style for women, men and children.
Wild Clothing
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures at Wild Clothing, Nottingham’s iconic destination for unique, sustainable style since 1983.
Relic x Hooked Nottingham
0.3 km
Discover eclectic vintage fashion and unique style treasures in Nottingham’s edgy and vibrant Relic x Hooked store.
18montrose
0.3 km
Discover premium streetwear and designer fashion at 18montrose, nestled in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate shopping district.
Cow Thrift
0.3 km
Dive into Hockley's affordable vintage paradise at COW Thrift, where color-coded bargains and sustainable scores await in a spacious haven of retro prints and one-off gems.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cock & Hoop
0.1 km
Cozy Lace Market pub pouring local ales and pub favorites in a historic nook, perfect for relaxed escapes amid Nottingham's creative buzz.
Pitcher & Piano Nottingham
0.1 km
Historic church turned buzzing bar: stained-glass cocktails, pub feasts, and electric nights in Nottingham's Lace Market heart.
Brass Monkey
0.1 km
Late‑night Lace Market cocktail bar with a big rum selection, polished service and warm, low‑lit interiors — ideal for cocktails into the small hours.
Billy Bootleggers Nottingham (formerly Percy Picklebackers)
0.2 km
Dive into Nottingham's live music heartbeat at Billy Bootleggers, where nightly gigs, moonshine cocktails, and Lace Market history fuel epic nights until 3am.
The Blind Rabbit
0.2 km
New York-inspired Nottingham bar blending juicy burgers, wild cocktails, live sports on mega screens, arcade games, and casual vibes in a historic Lace Market gem.
Bunk
0.2 km
Crispy wings, killer cocktails, and Lace Market vibes—Bunk delivers Nottingham's boldest bite in a historic street setting.
All Bar One Nottingham
0.2 km
Sophisticated wine bar in Nottingham's Weekday Cross, perfect for after-work unwinds, bottomless brunches, and vibrant evenings with global wines and sharing plates.
Penny Lane
0.2 km
Step into Nottingham’s Penny Lane for nostalgic arcade fun, creative cocktails, and a lively, family-friendly vibe in the heart of the Lace Market.
Six Barrel Drafthouse
0.3 km
Hockley’s friendly craft-beer pub — six rotating taps, large bottle fridge and a relaxed, dog-welcoming atmosphere.
Coco Tang -Cocktail Bar
0.3 km
Daytime Asian café and a theatrical underground cocktail bar — two distinct moods under one roof in Nottingham’s Lace Market.
Be At One - Nottingham
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s vibrant cocktail scene with over 100 expertly crafted drinks and a lively late-night atmosphere at Be At One.
31K
0.3 km
NYC loft-style bar on Nottingham's Goose Gate, mastering cocktails, meatballs, and fusion street food in Hockley's creative heart.
The Curious Tavern
0.3 km
Discover shadowy nooks, bold ales, inventive cocktails, and live tunes in Nottingham's quirkiest Hockley bar—where curiosity meets comfort late into the night.
Lost Property
0.3 km
A secretive cocktail bar in the sandstone caves beneath Carlton Street — intimate, theatrical drinks in a subterranean setting.
Pit & Pendulum
0.3 km
Descend into Poe-inspired gothic splendor at Nottingham's most haunting pub, where shadowy decor, themed cocktails, and rock anthems craft unforgettable nights.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Cell
0.2 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsing heart at The Cell, where affordable drinks, diverse beats, and Hockley's electric vibe fuel unforgettable nights of dance and discovery.
Eleven
0.3 km
A lively, multi-bar nightclub in Nottingham’s Hockley district, famed for great cocktails, student nights, and an intimate yet energetic party vibe.
Tantra Night Clubs
0.3 km
Dive into Nottingham's electric nightlife at Tantra Night Clubs, where pulsating beats, dazzling lights, and stylish vibes create unforgettable nights of dance and discovery in the city center.
The Bodega Nottingham
0.3 km
Intimate two-level live-music bar and late-night club on Pelham Street — gritty, affordable and centred on close-up gigs and local sounds.
Popworld - Nottingham
0.4 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
NG-One
0.4 km
A large, late‑night Nottingham club with multiple dancefloors, strong sound and long weekend hours — built for night owls and student crowds.
Ocean Nightclub
0.5 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
The Brickworks
0.6 km
Nottingham's raw warehouse heartbeat: intimate DJ nights, killer cocktails, and pure underground energy in a brick-clad haven.
ICON
0.7 km
A compact, DJ-driven late-night club on St James’s Street — small footprint, high-energy nights and a tight city-centre atmosphere.
Tunnel Club
0.7 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
0.7 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
Unit 13
0.7 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
0.7 km
Dive into Nottingham's electrifying beats at Love Zoo, where house rhythms, dazzling lights, and cocktail-fueled nights create pure nightlife magic on Weekday Cross.
Stealth
0.9 km
Nottingham's drum and bass dynamo: world-ranked beats, epic nights, and unrelenting energy since 2004 in the heart of Goldsmith Street.
Rescue Rooms
0.9 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
