St. Margaret's, Westminster

St. Margaret's, Westminster. Situated in the grounds of Westminster Abbey and facing the Palace of Westminster, this Anglican parish church serves as the official place of worship for the House of Commons. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, it has a distinct identity, blending a rich history of royal and parliamentary association with a vibrant local parish life. Its architecture and notable features, including exceptional stained glass, make it a significant landmark in its own right.

History

The original church was founded in the 12th century by Benedictine monks from Westminster Abbey to serve the local population, distinct from the Abbey's monastic community. It was rebuilt starting in 1486 under the patronage of King Henry VII to address its dilapidated state. The church's history is deeply intertwined with the Palace of Westminster, becoming the regular place of worship for the House of Commons from around 1614, a tradition solidified after the Puritan period of the English Commonwealth. Notable historical events include the marriage of Samuel Pepys in 1655 and the baptism of Winston Churchill in 1874. It survived the Great Fire of London and sustained minor damage during the Blitz in World War II.

Architecture

The present structure is a prime example of late Perpendicular Gothic style, constructed largely from Kentish ragstone. The nave and aisles were completed in 1523, with the west tower finished later in 1735 to a design by John James, who also added the distinctive portico. A significant restoration was undertaken in the 19th century by the architect Sir George Gilbert Scott, who sought to return the interior to a more medieval character. The exterior is characterized by large windows, sturdy buttresses, and a simple, elegant tower, presenting a marked contrast to the ornate Gothic Revival architecture of the nearby Palace of Westminster.

Notable features

The church is renowned for its exceptional collection of stained glass windows. The east window, created in 1509 by Bernard Flower, commemorates the betrothal of Catherine of Aragon to Prince Arthur and is one of the finest examples of Flemish glass in England. Other significant windows include the Sir Joshua Reynolds memorial window by John Francis Bentley and the John Milton window, which depicts scenes from Paradise Lost. The intricately carved wooden pulpit, a gift from the Dutch government, commemorates the Hundred Years' War. The church also houses a rare 17th-century bread shelf, used for distributing alms to the poor.

Role and functions

As the parish church of the House of Commons, its Speaker's Chaplain officiates at services attended by Members of Parliament (MPs). It hosts significant state and parliamentary events, including annual services for the Commonwealth and memorials for former MPs. Simultaneously, it maintains an active role as a local parish church within the Diocese of London, holding regular Sunday services, concerts, and civic ceremonies for the City of Westminster. This dual function bridges national political life and local community engagement.

Burials and memorials

While not a major burial site like the Abbey, the churchyard and interior contain historically significant graves and monuments. The explorer Sir Walter Raleigh was executed nearby and is buried before the altar; his tomb is marked by a memorial slab. The churchyard holds the graves of the printer William Caxton and the courtier Sir Thomas Cawarden. Numerous wall tablets and floor brasses commemorate notable figures, including Milton's daughter and several Clerks of the House of Commons. A memorial to the American Revolutionary War hero John Burgoyne is also located within the nave.

Category:Churches in the City of Westminster Category:Grade I listed churches in London Category:Perpendicular Gothic architecture in London