At its exterior, St Mary’s has a distinctive rounded stone portico and round tower. The serene setting with a rich history boasts high ceilings, grand columns, and incredibly intricate architecture. Fortunately, St Mary’s Church enjoys an enviable Central London location in Marylebone, with Paddington, Mayfair and Regent’s Park close by. So, one’s way to an intimate concert or attending Sunday service is no hassle at all with just a 5-minute walk from Marble Arch Tube station.
Included on the list of many events organised at the unique church is Candlelight—candlelit performances offering new versions of recognisable hits, and the best of classical music.
What architectual monument inspired St Mary’s Church design?
St Mary’s Church in London is especially noted for its grand Corinthian portico, directly inspired by the Pantheon in Rome. Designed in the early 19th century by architect Thomas Hardwick, the church echoes the Pantheon’s classical grandeur through its neoclassical façade and imposing Corinthian columns. This design not only links the church to one of antiquity’s most iconic monuments but also reflects the growing elegance and prestige of Marylebone during that period.
What else can you do at St Mary’s Church?
At the heart of St Mary’s core values is the mission to be a source of good in the community. Thanks to a strong connection with the Parish School, through the Love Marylebone Project which tries to meet the locals’ immediate needs, and by welcoming the LGBTQ+ community, St Mary’s Church has established a meeting place for all.
With this in mind, visitors can attend marriage courses, parenting courses, and discover other events such as the Social Supermarket—an opportunity for people in need to access food and hygiene products for a small fee. And of course, you can also attend Sunday services and early morning prayer.
Candlelight concerts at St Mary’s Church
The Candlelight series has covered numerous music genres, and the upcoming concerts at St Mary’s Church are set to be no different. Audiences can expect to be dazzled by performances inspired by breathtaking pieces by the likes of Ludovico Einaudi, chart-topping hits by modern-day icons, and even an unforgettable concert guided by melodies from a popular game franchise, all whilst sitting surrounded by the glow of hundreds of flickering candles.
Facts, Curiosities and Interesting Things about St Mary’s
1. It’s a venue with a fantastic heritage
St Mary’s Church in London was built in 1824 as one of the Commissioners’ Churches. The Commissioners’ Churches included a number of churches established in the early 19th century to celebrate Britain’s victory at the Battle of Waterloo.
2. The building boasts some impressive features
Designed by Sir Robert Smirke, the same architect behind the design for the British Museum’s facadem St Mary’s features Greek Revival-style columns, large square windows, and more striking ornamentations. A major restoration project was completed in June 2002 without sacrificing the integrity of the church’s original Georgian architecture. The Great Hall inside the stunning Grade-I listed building is fitted with natural oak flooring and provides a grand setting for any occasion.
3. St Mary’s Community is always growing
Originally established to serve the community in Marylebone, St Mary’s Church began planting new churches shortly after reopening in 2002. Bound to one another by “friendship and shared values”, plants were created in Auckland (New Zealand), Exeter (England), and Jacksonville (Florida).
Nearby venues in London
St Mary’s Church in London also sits among a rich cluster of cultural venues. Nearby, you’ll find the Cockpit Theatre, known for experimental productions, the Royal Academy of Music, which hosts world-class recitals, the legendary 100 Club on Oxford Street, and the renowned Wigmore Hall for chamber music. The church itself is a key London venue for the popular Candlelight Concert series, while other candlelit performances take place at stunning locations such as Central Hall Westminster, St Mary le Strand, Southwark Cathedral, and the Actors’ Church in Covent Garden, making the area a hub for both heritage and contemporary cultural experiences.