St Mary's Church, Bodewryd

St Mary's Church in Bodewryd is a medieval stone building featuring two fonts, slate roofing, and a bellcote positioned at its west end. Windows throughout the interior display distinctive Islamic geometric patterns that enhance the church's visual character.

The church was established in 1254 and received its earliest dated architectural feature, a doorway, around 1500. A lightning strike in 1867 prompted major restoration work that transformed elements of the building.

The church served as a burial ground for members of the local Wynne family across generations, showing how deeply rooted this place was in the community's family life.

The church operates as part of the Church in Wales within a shared parish that includes five other churches in the area. Visitors should note that regular worship activities take place here throughout the year.

After a lightning strike in 1867, Lord Stanley of Alderley, a convert to Islam, funded the restoration and commissioned Islamic patterns to be incorporated into the stained glass windows. This unusual detail reflects a remarkable moment in the church's history when religious traditions intersected in an unexpected way.

Location: Mechell

Inception: 15 century

Elevation above the sea: 51 m

GPS coordinates: 53.38750,-4.40695

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:13