St Martin le Grand Church

About

St Martin le Grand, standing on Coney Street in the heart of York, is a church with deep historic roots and a story of resilience. First established in the 11th century, it was rebuilt in the 15th century and became known for its magnificent stained glass, especially the great west window of 1437 depicting scenes from the life of St Martin of Tours. The church was almost destroyed during a bombing raid in 1942, leaving only the tower and south aisle intact, but it was carefully restored in the 1960s under architect George Pace. Today, visitors can admire both its medieval survivals and modern features, including a striking reredos by Frank Roper and the famous clock with its gilded “Little Admiral” figure that has long kept time over Coney Street. Inside, memorials and historic furnishings reflect centuries of worship and community life, while the churchyard offers a quiet retreat from the bustle of the city. Still active as part of a joint parish, St Martin le Grand remains a symbol of York’s endurance, blending medieval splendour with post-war renewal.

York United Kingdom

Location

St Martin le Grand Church is located on Coney Street, York, with the postcode YO1 9QL. It stands at the northern end of one of York’s main pedestrian streets, within the central core conservation area of the city. The church features a prominent medieval tower with a distinctive large clock topped by the ‘Little Admiral’ figure. Nearby, visitors can explore Coney Street’s vibrant shopping and dining scene, the River Ouse to the west, as well as other historic landmarks such as York Mansion House, the Shambles, and St Helen’s Church. The church’s location places it at the heart of York’s busy historic quarter, surrounded by cultural, retail, and architectural highlights.