St Mary's Church Stockport - Britain All Over Travel Guide

St Mary’s Church Stockport

St. Mary’s Church at the heart of Stockport Market in Stockport is the oldest parish church in this northern town and a Grade 1 listed building.

The church near Stockport covered market

History

A church has stood on this spot since 1190 and the original St Mary’s oratory still remains along with a 14th-century chancel. Around 1310 a new church was built. The present church dates from the early 19th century and was designed by Lewis Wyatt.

Nearby Stockport Market dates back to the 15th century.

St Mary’s Church in Stockport Market

The interior of the church has various memorials to local, historical figures. The church gateway and drinking fountain are both Grade II listed structures. A number of large gravestones lie at the foot of the church (see below).

The inside of the church now has a small history museum dedicated to the history of the town and the church. There are old black and white photographs, books and documents on display.

The museum has a shop selling local souvenirs and goods as well as a cafe.

Another local church, the Catholic St Mary’s Church was the scene of the so-called Miracle of the Stockport Roses when a wreath of roses survived for several months without wilting. Thousands of people came to see the “miracle.”