St Mary's Uncovered: Faith and Heritage

St Mary's warmly invites you to explore its history as part of Heritage Open Days. Visitors can enjoy a specially created self-guided tour of this much-loved Catholic church, uncovering its origins, development, and place within the local community.

Occupying the site of an eighteenth century wooden chapel, the church was built in three phases in the second half of the nineteenth century. With the presbytery and war memorial, the frontage makes a highly prominent contribution to the Gosport High Street Conservation Area.

A highlight of the visit is the church's remarkable east window, a rare Catholic commission by Sir Ninian Comper, one of the most significant figures in Gothic Revival design. You will have the opportunity to learn about its history and the story behind its recent discovery.

You will also learn about the Spanish Queen, Maria Francesca, living 'in exile' at The Rectory in Alverstoke, and her 'state' funeral in 1834, with interment in the sanctuary of St Mary's Catholic Church.

Throughout the event, many of our parishioners/volunteers will share insights into Catholic worship, traditions, and the life of the parish.

Whether you are interested in churches, architecture, history, art or simply curious to step inside, all are very welcome.

Timings

Friday 11 September:

0900 - 1500 (Self-guided tour and open for private prayer)

Saturday 12 September:

0900 - 1900

Sunday 13 September:

1200 - 1900 (Self-guided tour and open for private prayer)

Monday 14 September:

0900 - 1500 (Self-guided tour and open for private prayer)

Tuesday 15 September:

0900 - 1900 (Self-guided tour and open for private prayer)

Wednesday 16 September:

0900 - 19:00 (Self-guided tour and open for private prayer)

Thursday 17 September:

0900- 1900 (Self-guided tour and open for private prayer)

Friday 18 September:

0900 - 1500 (Self-guided tour and open for private prayer)

Saturday 19 September:

0900 - 1900

Sunday 20 September:

1200 - 1500

Location & directions

St. Marys Church, 32 High Street, Gosport, Hampshire, PO12 1DF

Directions:

Situated along the Gosport High Street, among local shops, a short walk from the Gosport Ferry and Bus terminals.

Contact on day:

Clarinda Mansfield

Telephone number:

+447590643572

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

Mainly accessible for wheelchairs. Accessible toilet facilities will be available in the Parish Hall, just behind the Church. Changing Places (a facility for people with high level toileting needs) are available close by in Gosport Discovery Centre and also Gosport Museum and Art Gallery, just 5 minutes walk away. This is pedestrian High Street. Car parks available nearby off Mumby Rd, and South Relief Rd. Refreshments may be available in the parish hall on some days.

Additional information

The church will be open throughout the festival. Please keep in mind that there will be services on certain days. For service times, please check St Mary's notice board. Refreshments will be dependent on Parish volunteers availability.

Estimated duration:

1 hour(s)

Check out our online channels

Back to results