Our Lady and the English Martyrs Church

A church that divided the town

The church was paid for by Yolande Lyne-Stephens, a former ballet dancer, who gave more than £70,000 for the church, its furnishings and the rectory. Designed by Dunn and Hansom of Newcastle and built by Rattee and Kett, it was consecrated in 1890. Its size and its dedication to the English Martyrs caused controversy among Anglicans and members of the university.

What to look for

Inside, the stained glass includes dedications from Cambridge colleges and scenes of the English martyrs, especially St John Fisher. The Sacred Heart Chapel has a roof painted with a choir of angels, and the church holds a pre-Reformation oak statue of the Virgin Mary. Above the Lensfield Road entrance an inscription asks visitors to pray for the foundress.

Fitting it in

OLEM is on the walk between the railway station and the city centre, so it is easy to call in on arrival or departure. It is a working parish church, so be quiet during services. Parker's Piece is a few minutes north, and the Prince Regent and Rocca are close by on Regent Street. The spire is visible from much of the city, which makes it useful for getting your bearings.

Highlights

• Grade I listed (upgraded in 2022)
• Spire about 65m, the tallest in Cambridge
• Built 1885-1890 by Dunn and Hansom
• Stained glass of the English martyrs
• Pre-Reformation oak statue of the Virgin

Good to know

• It is an active Catholic parish church; visit respectfully around services.
• It is on the main walking route from Cambridge station to the city centre.

Frequently asked questions