St Mary the Virgin, Mortlake

About St Mary the Virgin, Mortlake

St Mary the Virgin is a historic Anglican church situated on Mortlake High Street, serving the communities of Mortlake, East Sheen and the wider Richmond borough. Part of the Church of England, it offers regular worship, spiritual reflection and a welcoming fellowship rooted in centuries of local life. The church is notable for its connection to John Dee, the remarkable Elizabethan scholar and polymath who is buried here, making it a place of both living faith and significant heritage interest. Rated 4.5 stars by visitors, it is wheelchair accessible and open weekdays throughout the morning and afternoon.

Local area

Mortlake High Street sits at the eastern edge of the East Sheen area, where the neighbourhood meets the Thames and a quietly distinctive stretch of riverside history. St Mary the Virgin anchors this part of the borough with a presence that predates the Victorian and Edwardian streets surrounding it by centuries. In a locality that values its natural setting and sense of continuity, the church feels entirely at home — a place where the unhurried pace of East Sheen life meets something older and more enduring. Richmond borough is richer for having it.

Why choose St Mary the Virgin, Mortlake

For residents of East Sheen, Mortlake and Barnes who value both community and heritage, St Mary the Virgin offers something genuinely rare: a place of active worship that also carries a remarkable story. The connection to John Dee alone makes it one of the most historically layered sites in the Richmond borough. Visitors consistently note the peaceful atmosphere and warmth of welcome. The church is wheelchair accessible, open five days a week, and requires no appointment — making it easy to drop in for quiet contemplation or to explore a fascinating corner of local history.

Services

• Anglican worship services
• Spiritual reflection and prayer
• Heritage visits and church exploration
• Community fellowship
• Churchyard and grounds access
• Pastoral support

Ideal for: Local residents seeking worship, History and heritage enthusiasts, Those seeking quiet reflection, Community-minded parishioners, Visitors to the Richmond borough, Families with an interest in local heritage.

Frequently asked questions

When is St Mary the Virgin open to visitors?

The church is open Monday to Thursday, 8:30 AM to 4 PM. It is closed on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, so weekday visits are recommended.

Is the church wheelchair accessible?

Yes, St Mary the Virgin is wheelchair accessible.

Who is John Dee, and what is his connection to the church?

John Dee was a celebrated Elizabethan polymath — scholar, mathematician and adviser to the Tudor court. St Mary the Virgin is his final resting place, making the church a site of considerable historical significance.

How can I contact the church or find out more?

You can reach St Mary the Virgin by phone on 020 8876 1630, or visit the church website at stmarymortlake.org.uk for further information.

Is this a Church of England church?

Yes, St Mary the Virgin is an Anglican church, part of the Church of England.