St Mary's Church, North Cockerington

St Mary's Church is a stone building made from greenstone, ironstone, and limestone that contains a nave, a south aisle, a chancel, and a southwest tower. The lancet windows pierce through the walls and define the architectural style that shaped this structure.

Construction began around 1050 and the building later served as a chapel attached to Alvingham Priory, a Gilbertine monastic community. When the priory was dissolved in 1536 as part of the religious reforms, the chapel's role changed.

The painted texts above the arcade and chancel arch tell you about the beliefs and prayers of medieval worshippers who came here. You can see carved details in the 13th century octagonal font that reflect the craftsmanship of that era.

The building sits about a mile away from the main parish church at Alvingham, standing on its own in the countryside. Both churches share a single churchyard, so you may see gravestones from both communities in the same space.

Inside the church rests a 14th century stone coffin carved with the figure of a medieval knight in full detail. This carved memorial shows how people of high standing were buried and remembered in the church.

Location: Alvingham

Inception: 11 century

Architectural style: English Gothic architecture

Website: http://visitchurches.org.uk/Ourchurches/Completelistofchurches/St-Marys-Church-North-Cockerington-Lincolnshire

GPS coordinates: 53.40110,0.05560

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:24