St Mary

Bottesford, Leicestershire

Address

St Mary
Bottesford
Leicestershire
NG13 0DA

St Mary's, often called The Lady of the Vale (of Belvoir), is one of the largest village churches in England and one of the most important in the diocese and county of Leicestershire (albeit with a Nottingham postcode). Grade I listed and in a conservation area, the church is built mainly of limestone, with some ironstone in the chancel.  Important tower and spire c.1420 (rebuilt 1876, overall height 210 ft, can be seen for miles in every direction. Uniquely, the spire is 36 feet taller than the tower on which it sits. Fine gargoyles. The chancel is largely occupied by important monuments of the Earls of Rutland which attract numerous visitors. Well-kept churchyard with notable gravestones, some bearing the Belvoir Angel motif. Nave roof restored 1967, chancel re-roofed 1968. In recent years the church has reordered the nave and west end - new unifying stone floor, flexible space and excellent community facilities. 

Urgent replacement of the south transept roof is required. The replacement of the south transept roof will enable the Lady Chapel to be enjoyed and used once again for communion throughout the week and for quiet prayer using the prayer tree and candles of remembrance. The church has an open door policy and is passionate about encouraging people to visit and enjoy all the history and beauty of the building. This project will ensure that its historic structure continues to be protected for all to enjoy, and is a safe and wonderful place for worship, for visitors and for a wide range of community events.

  • Church of England

  • Partnership Grant, £2,500, 2016

  • Our Partnership Grants funded a range of repair projects, recommended by County Church Trusts, to help keep churches open.

Other nearby churches

St Mary

Staunton in the Vale, Nottinghamshire

Village church with rare Crusader tombs, Norman font and armorial hatchments.

Holy Trinity

Allington, Lincolnshire

A small beautifully appointed tucked away in a secluded area with an attractive walk to the building itself.