As you approach St Mary's Church, you'll spot its towering presence ahead of you, captivating with its sheer architectural grandeur. Look for the majestic Gothic perpendicular style, with its pointed arches and intricate stonework. The tall, rectangular tower adorned with battlements and the impressive cross on the left tell you you're in the right place.
The Church of St Mary the Virgin is the oldest parish church in Nottingham, and it's not just any old building-it's Grade I listed by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport for its outstanding architectural and historical interest. That's like having a VIP pass in the world of buildings! This church is like the grandparent of Nottingham, mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 and tracing its roots all the way back to Saxon times.
Sitting proudly in the historic Lace Market district on High Pavement, St Mary's is also known as St Mary's in the Lace Market. It's a member of the Major Churches Network, which is kind of like being part of an elite club. The current structure, with its stunning nave finished before 1475, is a masterpiece of gothic perpendicular style. The south aisle wall was likely the pioneer built in the early 1380s, with the rest of the structure following suit in the early 15th century.
This church has some fascinating stories to tell. From 1108 to 1538, it was owned by Lenton Priory, and the monks ran the show. The church also has a historic connection to education. In 1513, Dame Agnes Mellers founded a school here, which has evolved into the Nottingham High School today.
Oh, and have you heard about George Fox, the founder of the Quakers? He was quite the character-he got imprisoned in Nottingham in 1649 after causing a ruckus at St Mary's. Bold move, George!
The church also took on some unique roles over the years. It housed the town fire engine in the early 1700s and even had a porch school for the Nottingham Bluecoat School founded in 1706.
Time to marvel at its beauty and imagine all the stories these ancient stones could tell! Enjoy this historic gem!
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