St Mary's Luton

St Mary's Church has stood at the heart of Luton for some 1200 years, the present building for 900 years. Construction of the stone church began in 1121, its was consecrated in 1135, and by around 1400 the structure you see now was pretty much in place.

The church is Luton's only Grade 1 listed building, is regarded as one of the finer medieval churches in England, and has been described as Luton's Medieval Jewel. Simon Jenkins notes the church and its surrounding churchyard easily belies the grim surroundings (though things are changing!) and speaks of the inside as "big white and elegant, a challenge to its surroundings." He goes on to say "the two richest periods of English architecture, the 15th and 19th, are in glorious harmony."

You will be free to wander yourself, to take a tour or climb the tower. Tours will take in the main features of the church, including its tiny and rare Barnard Chantry (possibly a "Leper Chapel"); its Baptistry, perhaps the finest font canopy in England; the graceful Wenlock Screen; and the beautiful Magnificat Window.

** Saturday 13th Tour of church, 11.00 for one hour; Climb the tower 12.30, 13.30 and 15.00 (conditions apply; booking required)
** Wednesday 17th Reflective service, 11.00-11.30 "God in St Marys Architecture" ; Climb the tower 12.30 (conditions apply; booking required)
** Wednesday 17th 6-7.30pm. Talk and tour on the legacy of Rev James O'Neill, the energetic and often controversial vicar of St Marys 1862-95
Book below

Timings & Tours

Saturday 13 September:

1030-16.30 Church open, plus general church tour and 3 tower tours

Wednesday 17 September:

10.30-13.30 Church open, devotional service focused on heritage, tower tour. 6-7.30 talk

Location & directions

St. Marys Church, Church Street, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3JF

Directions:

Parking is available across St Marys road on Power Court or in Luton Point (the Mall). Refreshments will be available.

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking required

Booking conditions:

Church tour limited to 25. Tower tour 8 people each tour. Conditions on booking page.

Booking website:

https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/st-marys-luton-heritage-open-days-2025-4510233

Booking opens:

14 Aug 2025 12:00 AM

Booking closes:

17 Sep 2025 12:00 AM

Additional information

Est. tour duration:

1 hour(s)

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