Take a tour of this historic church, then climb the tower.
"Please note that the clock bells might chime during the tour and are extremely loud."
Smallprint is rarely alluring, but the details for ascending St Mary's tower just made us want to visit all the more. "You will be required to wear a head torch during the climb," states another, "All the climb is up a very narrow spiral staircase". This is going to be fun.
St Mary's church has stood — in one form or another — on Upper Street for almost a thousand years. The version we get today is partly 18th century (the tower), and partly 20th (it was the first London church to be hit during the Blitz). Now, Islington Guided Walks are offering tours of this fascinating building, including the chance to climb the tower and see ancient stones in the crypt.
Various Friday and Saturday dates are available throughout the spring. Tours cost £15 and last approximately an hour and a half. You'll need to be fit enough to climb 120 steps, and be sure to check the rest of the health and safety notes before booking.
We took the tour on a sunny April day, and can highly recommend the mix of history and adventure. It's not a tour you should do if you have a fear of heights (or stairs), but otherwise you'll be thrilled.
The Islington Guides have an excellent track record at opening up tall buildings to visitors. We've previously recommended their tours of Canonbury Tower and the Caledonian Market clock tower.
All images by Matt Brown
