St Martin's Church, Bedford

HERITAGE OPEN DAYS – 2024
ST MARTIN’S CHURCH, CLAPHAM ROAD, BEDFORD, MK41 7PW
BE AMAZED! BE INSPIRED!
St Martin’s Church, Bedford, is rather like an egg: plain and simple on the outside but full of richness and warmth inside.
Situated on Clapham Road, in the northwestern quadrant of Bedford, St Martin’s Church is a hidden gem. The external brick walls, lancet windows and double gables hide a little altered Victorian Church, designed in 1888 by J A Chatwin, an eminent Birmingham Architect.
The treasure that is St Martin’s is only revealed on entry – just as when an egg is cracked open. Suddenly, we are faced with a building so much larger than the outside suggests. Be amazed at the lofty nave, the unusual polygonal apse, atmospheric Lady Chapel and stone pillars supporting the fine brick walls. One’s eye is drawn inevitably to the stunning and moving hanging rood in the tall chancel arch. This, and the St Martin’s statue, are exquisite works of art from the Faith Craft Studios, as are several of the altar frontals that will be on special display. And don’t miss the excellent late Victorian/early C20th stained glass designed by Jones and Willis, and Clayton and Bell. Along with the altar frontals there will be a display of art work, prepared to augment our work among the local schools.
St Martin’s Church will be open on Saturday 14 September between 9 am and 5 pm, in association with the Beds and Herts Historic Churches Preservation Trust’s Sponsored Bike and Hike AND on

Timings & Tours

Saturday 14 September:

9am to 5pm

Sunday 15 September:

12 noon to 4pm

Location & directions

St Martin's Church, Clapham Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK41 7PW

Contact on day:

Andrew Hayes

Telephone number:

+447487642148

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

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