Waltham Abbey Church
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The Abbey Church
The present building is the fourth on this site, and was erected in the first quarter of the 12th century to replace the church founded by King Harold, who was buried near the high altar, in an area now outside the east wall of the church. In 1177, Henry II re-founded the church as an Augustinian abbey as part of his penance for the murder of Thomas Becket. The abbey was dissolved in 1540 (the last in England to be closed by Henry VIII), and the buildings erected for the canons were then pulled down. Only the nave survived, because it had always belonged to the parish. Most of the present building dates from c1120. The Lady Chapel and the undercroft beneath it were built in the 14th century. The east end, the stained glass and the painted ceiling were installed in the 1860's. The tower was built in the reign of Mary I. The Church is open to visitors (depending on services) from 10.00 - 6.00. For further details concerning your visit - contact the Parish Office 01992 767897.
The Music Department
The Abbey Church has a long and distinguished musical history dating back to the time when Thomas Tallis was organist. The church still maintains the highest standards of choral music, and also promotes other forms of music making including a successful series of lunchtime recitals (Saturdays at 12.30pm) in association with the Royal College of Music and an ambitious concert programme involving both the Abbey Choir and soloists from some of this country's top musical establishments including the Royal Academy and Trinity College of Music. More details can be found on our website www.wabbeymusic.co.uk
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