Since PERA merged with Henrietta Park RA in 2017, St Mary’s Churchyard has fallen in PERA’s area.  It has graves from the first half of the 19thcentury: some of Bathwick’s wealthy residents, tradesmen, visitors, & even some servants. The ruined mortuary chapel is by John Pinch the Elder who is buried next to it. After being locked for decades the churchyard was re-opened in 2006 through the dedication & commitment of a group of local people led by Alastair Cowan and Alan Bell.  There is a memorial bench to Alastair on the NW boundary wall.

Alongside the decaying splendour of the chapel & graves, a haven for wildlife has evolved & is encouraged through wildlife-friendly maintenance. In the last 6 months 12 different species of butterfly & moth have been seen as well as many birds.

Further info including details of some graves of interest can be found at www.stmaryschurchyard.com. The churchyard is largely maintained by volunteers who meet monthly on the second Saturday of the month from 10am to midday.  New volunteers are always welcome – enthusiasm more important than gardening experience!

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