St Mary's Church

This impressive Grade I listed building features important funerary monuments to the Myddelton Family, former owners of Chirk Castle, and the Trevor family, the former chief local landowners.

It is partly built on 11th-century Norman foundations, the north aisle and tower being constructed later around 1475. The unusual layout is double-aisled, with no distinct chancel and only a small sanctuary. Much of the interior, especially the south aisle, is dominated by carved memorials, principally to the Myddelton family.

The roof bosses are original to the late 15th-century roof. These interesting wood carvings, repainted in the 1970s, represent a common medieval art form, and reflect not only Old Testament creatures but also mythological beasts. The castle boss is thought to represent Chirk Castle.

Famous historical connections include Frances Maude, the author of the hymn 'Thine forever', who is buried in the churchyard. The Welsh poet R S Thomas served his first curacy here, from 1936 to 1941.

Facilities

  • Car parking
  • Wheelchair access
  • Loop system for hard of hearing
  • Information Centre
  • Church guidebook
  • Local shops

Places to Visit

  • Llangollen and the Llangollen Canal

  • Aqueducts in Chirk and Froncysyllte

  • Chirk Castle (National Trust)

  • Ceiriog Valley

  • Berwyn Mountains

Contact

Tel: 01978 292015

Opening Times

School Term Time

Monday to Friday
9.00am - 3.00pm

Easter and Summer Holidays

Monday to Friday
9.00am - 4.00pm

Every Saturday

10.00am - 12.00pm

Access information for St Mary's Church

St Mary's Church

Download the leaflet in the following format:

St Mary's Church Leaflet - PDF version 172Kb

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