Lincoln Cathedral

St Mary Magdalene, Lincoln

 

Abutting the Exchequer Gate, the parish church of St Mary Magdalene is rather dominated by the impressive mass of nearby Lincoln's Cathedral. This tiny church might easily be missed on the way to its famous neighbour, but it has a charming interior and an interesting history worth a short visit on the way past.

The original church was founded by Saxons, and was mentioned in the Domesday Book. Unfortunately for the parishioners, the site was chosen for the new Norman Cathedral, begun in 1072, and their parish church was demolished. As compensation, they were given the right to hold their services in the Cathedral - by tradition, in the Morning Chapel, also dedicated to St Mary Magdalene - a right still exercised by the parishioners once a year.

This arrangement lasted for two centuries, but in 1280, Bishop Sutton granted land to build a new church on the present site, which was consecrated in 1317. Some of this structure survives in the present building, along with one of the bells, (c.1350), inscribed ‘Sacra Maria Magdalene ora pro nobis’ (Holy Mary Magdalene pray for us). The church was largely rebuilt in 1695, following exentsive damaged during the Civil War. This delivered a simple building with nave and chancel under a single roof, a narrow aisle with a 5-bay arcade, and a small north west tower. The arched west doorway and doors survive from this time.

However, its present appearance owes rather more to George Frederick Bodley, who in 1882 remodelled the interior, providing the new chancel screen, chancel panelling and organ case. Although one of his smaller restorations, his work gives the building its present charm.

The church still holds regular services and has a small but loyal congregation. It is open for an hour before lunch on weekdays for private prayer and visitors.

St Mary Magdalene, Bailgate, Lincoln LN1 3AR

St John the Baptist, Cirencester

St Sampson, Cricklade

St Augustine, Kilburn

St Mary, Barlow

St Swithun, Great Chishill