Look for a tall, sturdy stone tower ahead, decorated with pointed arches, a black and gold clock, and spiky gothic pinnacles reaching up to the sky-St Mary’s Church is right in front of you!
Welcome to St Mary’s Church, once called the “Mother Church of Huntingdon.” If you close your eyes for a second, you might hear the echoes of centuries passing by right where you stand-just think, people have been gathering on this spot since 1140, when Eustace de Lovetot founded a priory here for the Austin Canons! But don’t get too comfortable-this ancient church once had a mind of its own. In 1607, the original building suddenly collapsed with a thunderous crash. But not to worry-quick-thinking townsfolk began building the church you see now just months later, and by 1620, their work was complete.
Today, you’ll spot its classic Perpendicular Gothic style-tall pointed arches, chunky buttresses, and those spiky “crocketed” pinnacles up above. As you walk by, look for delicate stonework panels and pretty niches carved right into the walls. Step inside, and you’d find an open nave lined with massive round and octagonal columns. Just imagine the sound of your footsteps echoing on the stone beneath those arches.
If you peek towards the front, the chancel reveals bits of even older architecture, holding whispers of the Decorated and Early English periods. There’s an impressive stone pulpit, a generous gift from John Montagu-the 7th Earl of Sandwich. No, he didn’t leave you any sandwiches, but his grand pulpit is almost just as satisfying! And over in the corner, don’t miss the simple yet meaningful font: a plain octagonal bowl, resting on clustered shafts, ready to welcome the newest members of Huntingdon’s flock.
As the bells ring out-eight of them, all a gift from M. E. Maill-the church truly comes alive. With seats for 550 people, it’s seen weddings, heartfelt farewells, joyous christenings, and quiet contemplation for hundreds of years. Imagine, the earliest entry in its register dates back to 1593! Every stone and carving here tells a story, and now, you’re part of it too.
