St Mary Magdalene Church

Thousands of people visit St Mary Magdalene Church every year to pay homage to the burial place of poet Lord Byron and for its beautiful stained-glass windows. Overlooking Hucknall market, this working church at the heart of the community has the largest collection of stained-glass windows by revered Victorian artist Charles Eamer Kempe, as well as stunning carvings and wall mosaics. It also holds an annual Christmas Tree Festival with a number of trees on display decorated by schools and community groups.

The Byron family vault includes the poet and his daughter Ada Lovelace, known as the world’s first computer programmer. Adjacent to the church is a statue of Byron located high above street level in the wall of the old Co-op building, and within the churchyard there is a memorial garden dedicated to the writer.

Another famous figure, Victorian prize fighter Ben Caunt, is also buried at the church. It is believed he provided the nickname of Big Ben for the Palace of Westminster bell that is part of the London tourist attraction.


The history
A church has stood on this site from Saxon times, with foundations found under the nave in the 1930s. The tower was constructed between the 12th and 14th century, with the main part of the building the result of extensive renovation beginning in 1872.

Facilities
All areas accessible to disabled visitors with use of access ramp, disabled toilets, hearing loop, large print versions of visitor guides available, assistance dogs welcome.

Opening times
Open six days a week. Check the church website for opening times and services.

How to get there
By car: Exit junction 26 on the M1 and take the A610 to Hucknall.
By train: Hucknall station (0.5 miles).
Parking: St Mary Magdalene Church car park, NG15 7BX; Hucknall Market Place car park, NG15 7FQ.