St Mary's Church

Nestled in the heart of Rutland, St Mary's Church stands as a beacon of history and faith in the picturesque village of Greetham. This Grade I listed building is a testament to the region's rich architectural heritage, offering a peaceful sanctuary for both locals and visitors alike. With a history dating back to the 14th century, St Mary's Church is not just a place of worship but also a cherished community hub and a must-visit attraction in Oakham.

• Sunday Services: St Mary's Church hosts a range of services every Sunday, from traditional Holy Communion to family-friendly services with children's activities. The church also participates in the Oakham Team Ministry, sharing clergy and resources with other local churches.
• Weddings and Baptisms: The church welcomes couples seeking to get married in a beautiful, historic setting. Baptisms, also known as christenings, are another important rite conducted at St Mary's, marking the beginning of a person's journey in the Christian faith.
• Funerals and Memorial Services: St Mary's Church offers a respectful and supportive environment for funerals and memorial services, helping families celebrate the lives of their loved ones.
• Community Events: The church hosts various community events throughout the year, such as concerts, exhibitions, and fundraisers, fostering a sense of belonging among Greetham's residents and visitors.

St Mary's Church is conveniently located at the heart of Greetham, just off Main Street, on Church Lane. The postcode for satnav users is LE15 7NF. There is a small car park next to the church, and additional parking can be found on Main Street or in the nearby Greetham Valley Hotel.

The church is easily accessible by public transportation. Bus services 747 and 804 operated by Centrebus stop near the church, connecting Greetham to Oakham, Uppingham, and other nearby towns. Additionally, the church is a leisurely 20-minute walk from Greetham's motorhome and campervan club site, making it an ideal attraction for visitors exploring the Rutland Water area.

• Architecture: St Mary's Church boasts a stunning architectural blend of styles, from the 14th-century tower and south door to the 15th-century nave and chancel. The church's most notable feature is its magnificent west window, a stunning example of 19th-century stained glass craftsmanship.
• Interior Decor: The interior of St Mary's Church is adorned with beautiful features, including a marble memorial to Sir Henry FitzRoy, the illegitimate son of King Henry VIII, and a magnificent organ built by the renowned firm of Gray & Davison.
• Church Bells: Greetham's church has a ring of six bells, dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Visiting ringers are welcome to participate in ringing the bells, which can be heard throughout the village when a team is available.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: St Mary's Church is committed to ensuring that its services and facilities are accessible to everyone. The church has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, allowing all visitors to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and participate in services.

• Opening Hours: St Mary's Church is typically open for visitors during daylight hours. However, opening times may vary, and the church may be closed for services or private events. It is recommended to check the church's website or contact the churchwardens for the most up-to-date information.
• Contact Information:
  • Phone:1572812202
  • Website:northrutlandchurches.org.uk
  • Churchwardens:
    • Helen Macleod-Smith - Email: [email protected]
    • Jackie Gauntley - Email: [email protected]

St Mary's Church has an impressive average rating of 4.7/5 on Google My Business, with 7 reviews highlighting various positive aspects:

• Historic architecture: Several reviews praised the church's beautiful and well-preserved architecture, with one reviewer describing it as "fabulous architecture from 700 years ago."
• Tranquil and beautiful surroundings: Reviewers appreciated the peaceful and picturesque setting of the church, with one mentioning that the church and grounds were "beautiful and tranquil."
• Community involvement: Many reviewers highlighted the strong community spirit and involvement surrounding the church, with one visitor praising "Great community involvement with this Church."
• Warm welcome: Several reviews mentioned the warm and welcoming atmosphere at St Mary's Church, with one visitor noting that they always received a "warm welcome."

These positive aspects demonstrate St Mary's Church's commitment to preserving its rich history, fostering a sense of community, and providing a welcoming and peaceful environment for both locals and visitors.