St Martin's Church, Dorking Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids St Martin's Church
Church of St Martin of Tours, Dorking
view from the south
St Martin's Church Location in Surrey
51°13′58″N 0°19′56″W / 51.2328°N 0.3322°W / 51.2328; -0.3322
OS grid reference	TQ 16540 49499
Location	Dorking, Surrey
Country	England
Denomination	Anglican
Website	StMartinDorking.org
History
Status	Active
Dedication	St Martin of Tours
Architecture
Functional status	Parish church
Architect(s)	Henry Woodyer
Style	Gothic
Administration
Deanery	Dorking
Archdeaconry	Dorking
Diocese	Guildford
Province	Canterbury

St Martin's Church is an Anglican church located in Dorking, Surrey. It is a very old building, with some parts still standing from the Middle Ages. This church is an important historical site, recognized as a Grade II* listed building. It serves as the main Anglican parish church in Dorking and was updated by the architect Henry Woodyer.

History of St Martin's Church
- Early Beginnings
- 19th Century Renovations
Church Community and School
- Sharing the Church Building
- Connection with the School
Gallery
See also

History of St Martin's Church

Early Beginnings

A church in Dorking was first mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086. The church you see today was likely built in the 12th century. It probably replaced an even older church. In the 14th century, the church was made larger. It was also given to the Priory of the Holy Cross in Reigate. For some time in the 17th century, the church building was even used as a school.

19th Century Renovations

During the 1800s, St Martin's Church went through big changes. Between 1835 and 1837, the main part of the church, called the nave, was rebuilt. From 1866 to 1868, the chancel, which is the area around the altar, was also rebuilt. In 1872, the nave and its side aisles were restored again. This work was led by the architect Henry Woodyer.

A new tower and a tall spire were added between 1873 and 1877. The spire reached 210 feet high. The church bells, which were first acquired in 1626, were then rehung in this new bell tower. Later, in 1912, the lady chapel was extended.

Church Community and School

Sharing the Church Building

St Martin's Church shares its space with the local Methodist congregation. In 1973, the Methodist church in Dorking closed. An agreement was made for them to use the St Martin's Church building. In 1976, another agreement allowed both groups to use the nearby Christian Centre as a church hall.