A place of prayer in the heart of Ware
Welcome to the Church of St Mary the Virgin — an open and lively Christian community worshipping in a beautiful medieval building. Whoever you are, and for whatever reason you come, you are welcome here.
An open door, a place to belong
The Church of St Mary the Virgin is a vibrant and flourishing Christian community that seeks to love God with all its heart and to love its neighbours as itself. We are a member of Inclusive Church, welcoming everyone regardless of background, age, ability or sexual orientation.
Our building is usually open every day from 9am until 5:30pm. Please come in to say a prayer, light a candle, explore nine centuries of history, browse the bookstall, or simply sit and enjoy the peace.
Discover our storyFind your place at St Mary's
Worship, music, community and heritage — there is a warm welcome waiting whatever brings you through our doors.
Worship
Sunday Eucharist, weekday prayer and sung Evensong in the Anglican tradition.
Service times
Music & Choirs
A flourishing choir, chorister programme and our historic 1860 Hill organ.
Make music
What's On
Lunchtime concerts, arts events, the Games Café and community gatherings.
See events
Visit Us
How to find us, opening hours, parking, accessibility and facilities.
Plan a visitThis week at St Mary's
Our worship follows the daily and weekly rhythm of the Church of England. Sunday services are held in church and livestreamed; the Daily Office is prayed in the Lady Chapel through the week.
Sundays
8am Holy Communion · 10am Parish Eucharist with Children's Church · Choral Evensong at 5pm on the 1st & 3rd Sundays.
Weekdays
Morning Prayer 9:15am & Evening Prayer 5pm, Monday to Thursday · Holy Communion Wednesday 11am.
A living heritage
There has been a church on this site since the Norman Conquest — the Domesday Book of 1086 records a priest at Ware. The building was enlarged in the 15th century by Lady Margaret Beaufort, mother of Henry VII, and is regarded as a fine example of 14th and 15th century architecture.
From its soaring nave and medieval font to Victorian stained glass and the Hill organ of 1860, St Mary's holds the prayers of countless generations — and continues to gather new ones.
Explore our history
Come and see
Whether you are exploring faith, returning after time away, visiting our historic building, or looking for a church to call home — there is a place for you at St Mary's.