Stephen’s Church and St Mary’s Church have the most interesting histories and art treasures to share with us, Sir Gilbert Scott, John Flaxman and Abraham Colfe will be among the names discussed. We will meet at 9.45 am at the West End of St Stephen’s and then walk along the Ravensbourne through the delightful Therapeutic gardens to St Mary’s Ladywell. Julian Watson local historian and archivist will be there to guide us round. The donation of £5 on joining the walk will be shared with the respective churches.

After the Event …..

We had an excellent morning and our thanks to the hospitable welcome we received at both churches. St Stephen’s is quite remarkable in the quantity and quality of the beautiful artworks the church contains. The generosity of the early vicars in the founding of the church in lavish style was continued by the following parishioners. Indeed the impressive rood screen across the chancel arch was erected in 1916 from funds collected by the congregation. The stained glass, sculptures and in lay give a richness to this very special Gilbert Scott Church. Sadly the church tower had to be lower than planned due to soggy ground.

Capital sculpture of the Stoning of St Stephen

Our visit to St Mary’s was full of surprises. The church dates from 10th century when the ground level was at a lower than that of today. It began as a timber structure, and has had various rebuilding and renovations through time, it still retains its square medieval tower. Abraham Colfe was rector here. It use to be an extensive parish which in the 18th and 19th centuries included Blackheath. When money for the building was required the church treasurer came up with a cunning plan of charging for memorials, so that many of the wealthy residents of Blackheath and Lewisham are recorded in style at St Mary’s. Mr Bennett of Bennett Park, clock maker of Blackheath, was clearly persuaded to provide the church clock.

St Mary’s, Lewisham.