A million pounds a king’s ransom. That’s what it cost to build Holy Trinity Church Marylebone. One of the Waterloo churches. Built to celebrate Napoleon’s defeat. Can you imagine the celebrations?
Holy Trinity Marylebone stands proudly. A Grade I listed former Anglican church. Architect John Soane designed this architectural gem. Completed in 1828 its elegant presence still captivates. Its unique off-set entrance boasts four large Ionic columns. A lantern steeple tops the structure resembling St Pancras New Church.
George Saxby Penfold became the first Rector. He’d previously held a similar position at Christ Church Marylebone. The church’s vault witnessed the first burial in 1829. The last in 1853. Sir Jonathan Wathen Waller’s final resting place was here.
The church’s external pulpit faces Marylebone Road. A testament to Revd William Cadman’s powerful preaching. His sonorous voice resonated throughout the parish. He served as Rector from 1859 to 1891.
By the 1930s the church’s use declined. Penguin Books transformed it into a book warehouse. Imagine children’s laughter echoing through the crypt. A slide delivered books from the street below. Penguin’s stay was short. They moved in 1937. The Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge (SPCK) took over. It served as their headquarters until 2006.
Today Holy Trinity is home to the world’s first wedding department store. The Wedding Gallery occupies the ground and basement levels. The first floor hosts events at One Marylebone. This remarkable building continues to adapt and thrive. Its rich history lives on. A testament to its enduring legacy.