The History of St Mary le Strand in London
Long revered as one of London’s architectural treasures, St Mary le Strand has witnessed centuries of action and evolution — nearly eight of them, in fact.
It was first documented in 1222, when it was known as the Church of the Innocents, and its initial building was torn down by Edward Seymour, 1st Duke of Somerset who built Somerset House, in 1549. A maypole was erected on its site, and it hosted many May Day festivities throughout the 16th and 17th centuries.
Finally, the architect James Gibbs (known for St Martin-in-the-Fields in Trafalgar Square) began working on a new church, which was consecrated in 1724. At St Mary le Strand, all sorts of momentous events have unfolded, from Bonnie Prince Charlie’s secret renunciation of his Roman Catholic Faith to its near-destruction during the Blitz.
Supporting the future of St Mary le Strand
But now, it stands strong, and is in the midst of its Jewel in the Strand campaign to ensure its future is just as glorious as its past.
Simpson’s is delighted to collaborate with St Mary le Strand as one of our official charity partners; we look forward to sharing our work together in the near future.
Classical Music at St Mary le Strand
In the meantime, the church hosts several marvellous classical music series throughout the year, and all are well worth your time. And afterwards, we will be waiting for you with pie and pudding.
