Walks in England: Exploring St Mary's Church, Reigate, Surrey

Today I am out with Matthew Holdsworth exploring St Mary's parish church in Reigate, Surrey.

Work on this large church (one of Surrey's biggest) began in about 1200—the "unexpectedly noble" arcades date from then—and continued until the 15th century. Henry Woodyer (1845) and George Gilbert Scott, Jr. (1877–81) restored it and largely created its present appearance.

We also discover Francis Frith's final resting place and some fascinating medieval knight's helmets.

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I film with a Gopro and Zyiun Smooth 3 Gimbal, Rode Lavalier and Zoom H4 recorder..

[kibristuber]

I was a choirboy at St Mary's church in the 1950's and early 60's. The choirmaster/organist was Cecil Nuttall. I notice that the choir stalls have been removed. Regarding the graveyard, I prefer it as it is now - a space for nature.

[cathybonner]

A lot of my ancestors are buried in St. Mary's churchyard, I must get back up there. What a beautiful interior with all the marble statues, stunning

[jenstewart]

What a remarkable church! Thanks Richard and Matthew for that fascinating exploration.

[MrGreatplum]

A very interesting video - what a dashing young fellow you have with you today!

[weissichnichtbre]

Love Reigate! Watching from Perth Australia, keep up the good work!

[davidkeel]

That was a superb video. You and Matthew work well together and he's a great person to be sharing these places with. He's very knowledgable.

[annosborne]

Thank you Richard and Matthew, very enjoyable video

[robertwilkes]

Marvelous video Richard great architecture, contrasting stone. Robert, NZ

[MelissaG]

At least you can help with your family very much ❤️

[oldmason-vn]

Having been born and raised in Reigate, I was interested to see this video. This turned to shock when the awful overgrown church grounds appeared, followed by the realization that all the beautiful pews had been torn out of the church. Having lived in Canada for a number of years I would get home sick from time to time - not any more!

[kc]

Richard: you’re going to take me both in the church and up the tower...
Mathew: shall I lead you on?

No “leading on” needed by the looks of things ;)

[DavidB]

I think the Francis Edgar Frith mentioned at 3:15 must be the son of the photographer, as he died young (1864-83). Francis Frith senior is mentioned lower down the gravestone, but the phrase 'in memory of', and the fact that he died at Cannes, suggests that he may not actually be buried in this grave. More likely he was buried in a cemetery at or near Cannes.

[MrGreatplum]

It has been pointed out to me, quite correctly, that the effigies are not of the Howard family. They are of Thomas Bludder of Flanchford and his wife Mary. Next to them is a monument to Richard Elyott, a justice of the peace, and his son Richard, who was a servant of Henry, Prince of Wales.