St Mary's Church, Bungay

St Mary's Church is a Grade I listed church building in Bungay, featuring a 33.5-meter-high tower with ornate carvings and large tracery windows. The interior contains carved roof bosses and wooden furnishings that structure the worship space, which can accommodate around 280 people.

The church originated in 1309 as a Benedictine priory, then transformed into a parish church following Henry VIII's dissolution of monasteries in 1536. This shift from monastic to local community use shaped its purpose and development for centuries to come.

The wooden ceiling displays carved roof bosses depicting angels, lions, and two-headed eagles, while a 1675 dole-cupboard shows religious figures. These carvings and furnishings reflect the artistic heritage that parishioners have valued for generations.

The building is located in Bungay town center with nearby public parking available for visitors. It remains open daily and includes restrooms and a kitchenette for those using the space.

A 17th-century Flemish panel depicting the Resurrection was donated by author H. Rider Haggard and hangs in the War Memorial Chapel. This artwork creates an unexpected link between the church's religious history and a famous writer's personal connection to the place.

Location: Bungay

Inception: 1309

Website: http://visitchurches.org.uk/Ourchurches/Completelistofchurches/St-Marys-Church-Bungay-Suffolk

GPS coordinates: 52.45560,1.43790

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:44