A warm welcome awaits at St Mark's, an East Belfast landmark, and the childhood church of C.S. Lewis, author of The Chronicles of Narnia.
Perched above the lough in East Belfast, St. Mark's Church, Parish of Dundela is just a short drive from the vibrant Titanic Quarter with its elevated position standing as a beacon of witness for miles around. Built in the Gothic Revival style in 1878 by the esteemed Victorian architect William Butterfield, this Grade A listed building and its towering 150-foot bell tower stand proudly on Bunker Hill.
Explore and connect with the rich history of St. Mark's, intimately intertwined with Belfast's linen and shipping industries. Marvel at the architectural prowess of Butterfield, hailed by Poet Laureate Sir John Betjeman as being "at his best" in crafting this spiritual haven. The familiar chime of ten bells regularly ring out and can be heard across the city of Belfast. Immerse yourself in the stories of the prominent families who shaped Belfast's industrial landscape, and uncover the connections between St. Mark's and C.S. Lewis, the famed author of The Chronicles of Narnia, who was baptised in this sacred space. Admire the exquisite stained glass, including the Lewis Memorial window crafted by Michael Healy. Follow the intricate floor tiles leading to the sanctuary mosaics, where the search for carved 'Hidden Angels' adds an element of intrigue and fun. As the sound of the Compton organ fills the air, take a moment for quiet reflection or step outside to explore the grounds beautifully kept with the support of volunteers and the community. |
Highlights include:
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Types of Tours Available
Experience Name |
Short Description |
Experience Type |
Min-Max |
Duration |
Public Price Per Person |
Stories from St Mark’s – The Lion on the Hill |
Insights and stories that intertwine with the rich history of Belfast in this enchanting Gothic Revival church while uncovering its connection to the magical world of Narnia. |
Scheduled |
1-20 |
1.5 hours |
£10pp Children under 16 FREE |
As above |
As above |
Private |
6-50 |
1.5 hours |
£10pp Children under 16 FREE |
CS Lewis in Words – a literary tour |
Immerse yourself in the words of CS Lewis which reveal the strong influence of church and community on his early life, and inspired his creative writing to Narnia and beyond. |
Scheduled |
1-20 |
1.5 hours |
£10pp Children under 16 FREE |
As above |
As above |
Private |
6-50 |
1.5 hours |
£10pp Children under 16 FREE |
Inclusions:
- Guided tour by a parishioner of St. Marks
- Information leaflet available in French, German, and Spanish
- Tea/coffee and locally made shortbread served in the church following the tour
- Option to purchase memorabilia from the gift display
Optional Add ons:
- Access to the Bell tower and an opportunity to ring the bells with the bell master @ £20 pp
- A musical introduction to the Compton organ, with our in house organist @ £25 pp
- Afternoon Tea served in the wood panelled parlour of the church hall includes sandwiches, scones and tray bakes with tea/coffee @ £10 pp – Private tours only
Important Information:
NOTE:
St. Marks is an open church serving our local community. Please be mindful that this is a place of worship and show respect to others visiting.
- Tours are available all year round and can be booked via www.dundela.down.anglican.org/
- For details of scheduled tours, please check our website.
- Private experiences are subject to minimum numbers or the equivalent in charges
NOTE:
St. Marks is an open church serving our local community. Please be mindful that this is a place of worship and show respect to others visiting.
Important Information
Booking Information |
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Opening and Closing Dates |
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Location |
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Parking |
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Customer Information |
Accessibility
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Our Sustainable Ethos |
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