St. Mary's Church, Ryde 2.31

St. Mary's Church, Ryde is a Catholic Church in the parish of Ryde on the Isle of Wight. The parish was created in the 19th century when the Countess of Clare built St. Mary's Church.HistorySt. Mary's Church was built in 1846 by Elizabeth, Countess of Clare, (grand daughter of the last Duke of Ancaster) at a cost of £18,000. It was designed by Joseph Hansom and is often regarded as one of the finest early Victorian Catholic churches in England. It was the first church in England to be dedicated to the Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary. It was consecreated by Bishop Thomas Grant of Southwark in 1863. The church has a private chapel, once used by the foundress, the Countess of Clare, which is situated above the sacristy. Mass is occasionally offered here. It also has a crypt which is now a shop, tea room and mini museum. It is the only church crypt on the Isle of Wight which is open on a regular basis. Stained glass windows were added to the church between 1860 and 1880. Guided tours of the church can be arranged. Apply to the parish office. Tel 01983 812127 Further information can be obtained from the parish web site www.stmarysryde.orgExternal links Church website - stmarysryde.co.uk