St Martin's Church, Coney Street
St Martin's Church, Coney Street
Highlight • Historical Site
St Martin's Church, Coney Street
Hiking
4.8
(63)
St Martin's Church, Coney Street, also known as St Martin-le-Grand, is a significant historical site and Grade II* listed parish church nestled in the bustling heart of York, North Yorkshire, England. Standing at an elevation of approximately 15 metres above sea level, this ancient religious building on Coney Street boasts origins potentially dating back to the 11th century. It serves as a poignant landmark, blending centuries of history with a powerful message of peace and reconciliation following its near-total destruction during World War II.
Visitors consistently praise St Martin's Church, Coney Street, for its unique blend of ancient resilience and thoughtful modern reconstruction. Many are captivated by the magnificent 15th-century St Martin's Window, which survived the wartime bombing and is now displayed at eye-level, offering an unparalleled view of its intricate details. The church's peaceful and serene atmosphere, despite its central location, is frequently highlighted as a welcome haven for quiet reflection amidst the vibrant city centre.
Before visiting this historical site, it's helpful to know that the church is easily accessible within York city centre. As a central urban location, parking near Coney Street York can be limited, so considering public transport to Coney Street York is often advisable. The terrain around the church is flat and paved, making it suitable for most visitors. While there are no specific permits for walking tours York city centre, many guided historical walking tours York city centre include St Martin's Church as a key stop.
The best time to visit St Martin's Church Coney Street York is generally during daylight hours to fully appreciate the stained-glass windows and architectural details. The church offers a contemplative experience, perfect for those exploring the city on foot. Many enjoy combining a visit with easy walking routes York city centre, perhaps along the nearby River Ouse, or exploring other hidden historical sites near St Martin's Church Coney Street.
Stepping inside, visitors can admire the striking modern East Window, which vividly depicts York in flames during the 1942 bombing, a powerful contrast to the medieval tower and south aisle that survived. Beneath it, Frank Roper's gilt aluminium sculpture of the Last Supper provides a compelling piece of contemporary art within the historic setting. The picturesque overhanging clock, affectionately known as 'the Little Admiral', also draws attention from passers-by on Coney Street.
For those looking to explore the area further, numerous walking routes starting from St Martin's Church Coney Street York lead to other top rated historical attractions York city centre. Whether you're interested in historical walking tours York city centre starting near Coney Street or simply enjoying the natural features River Ouse walks York, the church serves as an excellent starting point. You can discover a variety of trails and routes near St Martin's Church Coney Street, catering to different interests and difficulty levels of walks in central York.
To plan your visit and discover more walking routes around this fascinating landmark, komoot offers a range of options for hikers and walkers. You can find routes that pass by St Martin's Church, Coney Street, and explore other landmarks and viewpoints near St Martin's Church Coney Street York, making it easy to integrate this historical gem into a broader exploration of the city.
Tips
December 1, 2022
Hiking
(borthcat.york.ac.uk/church-of-england-york-st-martin-coney-street-parish)
June 26, 2023
Hiking
•
July 28, 2023
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near St Martin's Church, Coney Street
4.7
(65)
974
hikers
7.90km
02:02
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(49)
820
hikers
7.82km
02:00
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(19)
335
hikers
6.41km
01:39
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 10 m
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Thursday 11 June
20°C
12°C
48 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 32.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the earliest known history of St Martin's Church, Coney Street?
The church's origins are believed to date back to the 11th century, with its first documented mention appearing between 1160 and 1180. It was confirmed to the Dean and Chapter of York in 1194, and a vicarage was established by the 13th century. Over time, several other York churches were annexed to St Martin's, contributing to its significance before its complete rebuilding in the 15th century.
How long should I plan for a visit to St Martin's Church, Coney Street?
Most visitors find that 30 to 60 minutes is sufficient to explore St Martin's Church. This allows ample time to appreciate the unique blend of medieval and modern architecture, closely examine the 15th-century St Martin's Window, and reflect on the powerful modern artworks like the East Window and the Last Supper sculpture.
Is St Martin's Church, Coney Street accessible for wheelchair users?
As a historical site in the city centre, the church is generally accessible. The terrain around the church on Coney Street is flat and paved. Inside, the main areas are typically accessible, but it's always advisable to contact the church directly for the most current information on specific accessibility features, especially for older buildings.
Are there any family-friendly activities or features at St Martin's Church, Coney Street?
While not specifically designed with children's activities, the church offers several engaging features for families. The magnificent 15th-century St Martin's Window, displayed at eye-level, can captivate younger visitors with its detailed scenes. The striking modern East Window depicting the 1942 bombing and the unique overhanging 'Little Admiral' clock also provide interesting talking points for all ages.
What are the parking options near St Martin's Church, Coney Street?
Parking directly on Coney Street is very limited due to its central city location. Visitors are advised to use public car parks within York city centre, such as those near the Shambles or Piccadilly, which are a short walk away. Considering York's excellent public transport network, including park-and-ride services, is often the most convenient option.
What is the best time of year to visit St Martin's Church, Coney Street?
While the church can be visited year-round, the best time to appreciate the stained-glass windows is during daylight hours. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring York city centre on foot, making it ideal for combining your visit with nearby walking routes. During peak summer months, the city centre can be quite busy, so visiting earlier in the day might offer a more serene experience.
Are there any guided historical walking tours that include St Martin's Church, Coney Street?
Yes, St Martin's Church is a significant landmark in York's city centre, and many historical walking tours incorporate it into their routes. These tours often delve deeper into the church's unique history, its survival during wartime, and its architectural features, providing a richer context for your visit. You can find information on local tour operators online or at the York Visitor Information Centre.
What kind of terrain can I expect on walking routes starting from St Martin's Church, Coney Street?
Walking routes directly from St Martin's Church, Coney Street, will primarily be on flat, paved surfaces within York's city centre. The area is well-suited for easy strolls, connecting you to other historical sites, shops, and the River Ouse. If you venture further out of the immediate city centre, you might encounter varied terrain, but central York remains largely flat and accessible.
Are there any hidden historical sites near St Martin's Church, Coney Street that are worth exploring?
York city centre is rich with hidden history. From St Martin's, you're within walking distance of numerous snickelways (narrow alleyways) that reveal glimpses of medieval York, remnants of the Roman walls, and other smaller, less-advertised churches or historical buildings. Exploring the streets just off Coney Street, like those leading towards the Shambles or the River Ouse, often uncovers these lesser-known gems.
What are some recommended cafes or restaurants near St Martin's Church, Coney Street?
Coney Street and the surrounding area are bustling with options for refreshments. You'll find a wide range of cafes, pubs, and restaurants catering to various tastes and budgets, all within a short walk of the church. From traditional English pubs offering hearty meals to contemporary cafes perfect for a coffee break, there are plenty of choices to refuel after your visit.
What makes the overhanging clock of St Martin's Church so notable?
The church's picturesque overhanging clock, often affectionately called 'the Little Admiral', dates back to 1779. It's a prominent feature on Coney Street and is frequently the first thing visitors notice. Its unique position and historical charm make it a beloved landmark and a popular subject for photographs, adding to the church's distinctive character.