St Michael's, Mount Dinham: Everyday Histories - a new legacy for Exeter

Saturday 12 & Sunday 13 September; 11.00am - 6.00pm.

Enjoy talks, a walking tour, music, Sung Mass and hospitality in this beautiful church, built for the people of Exeter 158 years ago.

Saturday 12 September - Prof. Anthony Musson's talk at 2pm explores how everyday lives were changed when Henry VIII travelled around the country on “progress” - what did hosting the King entail and how did royal servants and local tradespeople cope with the whims of the notorious King? How did Henry's love of music and celebration influence a church like St. Michael's, even after the Reformation?

Sunday 13 September - At St Michael’s, the traditions of music and liturgical feasts continue despite (or because) of the influence of the monarch! Sung Mass of the Holy Cross is celebrated at 11am, with a motet from King Henry VIII's reign, by Dionisius Prioris. At 2pm, Dr Richard Parker leads a walking tour of Mount Dinham, revealing the skills and ingenuity of the remarkable craftspeople and volunteers who continue to shape its future.

St Michael's is one of the most spectacular monuments to inspiration and generosity in Devon. Built in 1868 in memory of philanthropist John Dinham, it was transformed through a public petition in 2024, established as a distinct Parish church in 2026 and is now celebrated with the launch of "Music on the Mount"; a new chamber music concert series for Exeter.

St Michael's Mount Dinham is walking distance from Exeter Cathedral and home to peregrine falcons.

Timings

Saturday 12 September:

St Michael's Cafe opens at 11am. "Henry VIII in Exeter" talk at 2pm, by Prof. Anthony Musson, followed by afternoon tea from 3pm.

Sunday 13 September:

Sung Mass for the Holy Cross at 11am. "History of Mount Dinham" walking tour at 2pm with Dr. Richard Parker, followed by cream teas at 3.30pm and piano music

Location & directions

St Michael and All Angels Church, Dinham Road, Exeter, Devon, EX4 4EB

Directions:

St Michael & All Angels church stands on Mount Dinham, near to the Iron Bridge, and a 10 minute walk from the Cathedral Green in the city of Exeter. To find us, please visit our web page: www.stmichaelsmountdinham.org.uk/about/find-us/

Contact on day:

Leontina Cerno

Telephone number:

+447577632711

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

Please ask a steward if you require a ramp for mobility or wheelchair access into the church. The church has one WC on site, with an additional portaloo for the Heritage Open Days 2026. Parking is available outside the church for around a dozen vehicles - pink parking permits are available to collect for display. Baby changing and breastfeeding are welcome and the choir vestry is available for privacy if required.

Additional information

Max number of people:

150

Estimated duration:

1 hour(s) 0 minute(s)

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