Mortlake, St Mary the Virgin
Address: Mortlake High Street. SW14.
Map Ref: TQ208760
8 Bells • Tenor 15 cwt.
Sunday Service Ringing: 9.30 - 10.00 am
Practice: Wednesday 8.00 - 9.15 pm
Entry is through the west porch entrance of the church, with access to the tower by a vertical ladder.
History
The Tower is the only part of the church to survive from 1543. The belfry was added in 1694, when six bells were installed, cast by Philip Whiteman of Clerkenwell. Two further bells, cast by Thomas Lester, at what is now the Whitechapel Foundry, complemented these in 1746. The ring is notable for being one of the few eight-bell rings surviving in its original condition from the 17th and 18th century, and retaining a good tone for bells of that age.
Transport
By Road: The church is on the south side of the A3003 with the road bounded on the north side by the River Thames. Although parking can be difficult, some spaces are available in the High Street, and also in some of the side roads.
By Bus: Routes 209, 419 and 485 all pass the church.
By Train: To Mortlake station from Waterloo with 5minute walk to St.Mary’s.
Facilities
Toilet is available in the church.
There are a number of ‘watering holes’ along the river - The White Hart, The Ship and also The Charlie Butler with both lunchtime and early evening food available. There is also no shortage of local restaurants!