Hidden amongst the grandeur of Westminster Abbey stands St Margaret’s Church. A seemingly quiet neighbour it holds centuries of captivating history. Founded in the twelfth century by Benedictine monks St Margaret’s served the local community. They worshipped separately from the Abbey’s more elaborate services. This simple parish church witnessed the ebb and flow of London life. It was initially situated within the hundred of Ossulstone in Middlesex.
St Margaret’s is more than just a place of worship. It’s a living testament to history. It was rebuilt between 1486 and 1523. King Henry VII instigated this significant reconstruction. The resulting structure largely stands today. Described as the last church in London decorated in the Catholic tradition before the Reformation St Margaret’s boasted richly painted statues and internal chapels. This ornate beauty narrowly escaped demolition in the 1540s. Edward Seymour planned to dismantle it for materials to build Somerset House. Armed parishioners thankfully thwarted his plans.
In 1614 St Margaret’s became the parish church of the Palace of Westminster. Puritans preferring its simpler services to the Abbey’s high liturgical style. This practice continues to this day. A detached burial ground was added in 1625 now Christchurch Gardens. Further renovations took place between 1734 and 1738. The north-west tower was rebuilt using Portland stone. Both the eastern and western porches were later additions. Sir George Gilbert Scott’s restoration in 1878 preserved many Tudor features. During this restoration several doors were found. They appeared to be covered in human skin. Victorian historians speculated it was William the Sacrist’s skin. He led a gang that robbed the King. However later analysis showed the skin was bovine.
St Margaret’s boasts remarkable stained glass. The east window of 1509 is Flemish. It commemorates the betrothal of Catherine of Aragon and Henry VIII. Its journey is extraordinary. From Waltham Abbey to various private chapels it finally arrived at St Margaret’s in 1758. Other notable windows commemorate William Caxton Sir Walter Raleigh John Milton and Admiral Robert Blake. War damage destroyed Victorian glass in the south aisle. John Piper’s modern abstract designs replaced them in 1967.
St Margaret’s has hosted countless weddings. From society weddings to those of Members of Parliament. Notable couples include Winston Churchill and Samuel Pepys. The church also has records of many baptisms and burials. Olaudah Equiano a former slave and abolitionist was christened there. Many regicides reburied there after being exhumed from Westminster Abbey. St Margaret’s Church is a hidden gem a place of worship and a living timeline. It’s a place where history whispers through its stones and where the past intertwines with the present.