Rufford St Mary the Virgin Church Our History

St. Mary’s is a beautiful Grade 2 listed Victorian building steeped in a rich history reflecting the ebb and flow of religious growth in England. Inextricably linked to the Fermor-Hesketh family the church’s heritage can be enjoyed alongside that of Rufford Old Hall.

The parish was established in 1793, and at that time the building was described as “having a neat, clean and elegant interior” Baines,E. (1836)  However, by the mid 1800’s this building could not meet the needs of a thriving parish. A new building was planned the foundation stone of which was laid in 1869 and the new church re-consecrated in May 1873.

Inside the church, there are several notable historical features including the Hesketh Chapel, a Royal Coat of Arms and a Gray and Davidson of London organ.  The church is rich in stained glass windows many of which depict the parables. War memorials recognise the village fallen.