St Mary's Church, Melton Mowbray

St Mary's Church is a medieval parish church featuring a 100-foot (30-meter) tower, aisled transepts, and Norman windows in the lower sections of its stone construction. The layout shows typical English church architecture with spacious interior areas and a structured arrangement.

The church foundations date to around 1150, with the earliest stonework from 1170 showing characteristic Norman architectural features. Over the centuries, various parts were added and modified, making the structure a record of different medieval building phases.

Inside, you can see monuments spanning different periods, including the tomb of Roger de Mowbray and a memorial to the horse painter John Ferneley. These pieces tell the story of people who shaped this town over the centuries.

Access is available on most weekdays, though opening times may vary depending on the day. It's helpful to check specific times before visiting and to be aware that regular services and community events take place, which may affect when you can look around freely.

The bell tower holds ten bells, with the oldest dating to the 14th century, plus a sanctus bell from the 17th century. This collection makes it a rare example of a church that has kept its original bell installation across so many centuries.