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The Chapel of St Mary on the Bridge Derby

The Chapel of St Mary on the Bridge, Sowter Road, Derby, Derbyshire, DE1 3AT

  • Multiple dates available
  • In person
  • Pre-booking not required

One of six remaining "Bridge Chapels" in the country. Built in the 13th Century, it has had a variety of uses until a full restoration in 1930 as a chapel. Many interesting and historical features including the original bridge arch.

The fully restored chapel retains its historical feel and is still used for worship and prayer by many Christian denominations. It has an association with the Padley Martyrs, 3 priests, who were hung drawn and quartered outside the chapel in July 1588. The bridge referred to in the title is not the present St Mary's Bridge which was built in 1793 a few metres to the north of the original stone bridge. You can view the original arch on which the Chapel was built, and use your imagination while in the chapel garden to appreciate that the river Derwent was a lot wider and shallower than now. Inside the chapel there is an impressive wooden beamed roof structure and wooden gallery. The beautiful coloured glass east window was designed and made in 1973 by Mary Dobson and the stained glass windows on the south wall were created by Richard Stubington influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement. Illustrating the purpose of a bridge chapel, a place of sanctuary for travellers, there is the hagioscope (or "squint window") through which those passing over the bridge could glimpse the lighted candle of the Blessed Sacrament, and the hatch through which money would be collected for the maintenance of the bridge or priest, or doles paid out to poor travellers. There are many other features and items to see including references to those who helped to restore the chapel in 1932. Information sheets, "before -and-after" photographs, postcards and booklet are available to enhance your visit.

Timings & Tours

Saturday 13 September:
1000-1600
Sunday 14 September:
1300-1600

Location & directions

The Chapel of St Mary on the Bridge, Sowter Road, Derby, Derbyshire, DE1 3AT

Contact on day:
Nick Green
Telephone number:
+447399451818

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:
Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

There are 3 steps to the building which prevents wheel chair access.

Additional information

Max no of people per tour:
15
Est. tour duration:
0 hour(s) 30 minute(s)

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