St Mary's Church

St Mary's Church is a Gothic Revival church located in a Welsh mountain village with a cruciform design and central tower. The structure features rubble stone walls accented with sandstone elements and slate roofs throughout.

The building was completed in 1907, replacing a medieval church dedicated to Saint Michael. Its creation was tied to the growing visitor traffic brought by Thomas Telford's new road through the mountain village.

Inside, visitors encounter an Italian alabaster reredos showing scenes from the Passion of Christ that commands attention above the altar. The stained glass windows, designed after Edward Burne-Jones patterns, fill the interior with colored light and reflection.

The building stands about 100 yards from the village railway station and remains open daily for visitors. The proximity to the station makes it easy to reach, and the short walk through the village is part of the visit.

The baptismal font in black and burgundy marble and the sandstone pulpit reflect design choices made during the Gothic Revival period. These furnishings show how the architect selected materials and forms to echo historical traditions while demonstrating contemporary craftsmanship.

Location: Betws-y-coed

Inception: 1907

Architects: Sharpe, Paley and Austin

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Elevation above the sea: 21.3 m

Website: http://churchinwales.org.uk/bangor/diocese/parish_details/arllechwedd/stmarybetwsycoed.html

GPS coordinates: 53.09160,-3.80284

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:45