Church of St Mary, Linslade facts for kids
The Church of St Mary is a very old and important church located in Linslade, Bedfordshire, England. It is known as a Grade I listed building, which means it is a special historical building that needs to be protected. It received this important status on February 20, 1954.
Contents
History of the Church
Early Beginnings
Long ago, in the 10th century, people called pilgrims were drawn to a special holy well at this spot. The very first church was built here in the 12th century. However, it was later rebuilt in the 15th century, giving it the look it mostly has today.
Changes in the 1800s
During the 1800s, big changes happened in England with canals and railways. Many people living in the old part of Linslade moved closer to the new railway and canal areas. This new area is where Linslade is mostly located now, right next to Leighton Buzzard.
In 1868, the church bells from St Mary's were moved. They went to a new church called St Barnabas in Linslade when its tower was finished. The south porch of St Mary's church was also updated during this time.
Becoming a Protected Building
On February 20, 1954, the Church of St Mary was officially named a Grade I listed building. This means it is considered one of the most important historical buildings in England.
Recent Updates
In the late 2010s, a small wooden toilet building was added near the church. It is a separate building, located close to the south-east side of the church wall.
Church Design and Features
The Church of St Mary has several main parts. These include the chancel (the area around the altar), the nave (the main part where people sit), a tall west tower, and a south porch at the entrance.
The chancel is about 24 feet long and 12 feet wide. The nave adds another 45 feet in length and is about 19 feet wide. The tower stands about 35 feet tall, with its base measuring 10 feet by 11 feet.
Porches and Doors
The main outer doorway of the church has a square top with special designs called quatrefoils. The south doorway, which leads into the church from the porch, was built in the 15th century. Inside the east wall of the porch, there is a small basin called a holy water stoup, which dates back to the 16th century. There is also a doorway on the north side of the church, but it is now blocked up.
Tower and Bells
You can reach the west tower's north-east corner from inside the church by using a special staircase. As mentioned, most of the original bells were moved to St Barnabas in 1868. This left only one bell at the Church of St Mary.
Around the Church
The Church of St Mary is located less than 100 meters from the Grand Union Canal. The canal was built around the church because the church stands on slightly higher ground.
The nearest pub, The Globe Inn, is about 500 meters to the south-east. You can easily get there by following the canal. The church site is also less than 2 kilometers from the 400-acre (160-hectare) Rushmere Country Parks. These parks are to the north. It is also a similar distance from Leighton Buzzard High Street to the south-east.
See also
- Grade I listed buildings in Bedfordshire
References
