Church of St Mary

The Church of St Mary stands at the crossroads overlooking the marshes in Chadwell St Mary, Thurrock, Essex. It is a Grade I listed building with Norman features, probably dating to the 12th century. The tower was added in the early 16th century, and the church contains an early memorial brass to Cicilye Owen, who died in 1603. An extension was built on the south side at the start of the 20th century. The church is part of the Parish of Chadwell St Mary in the Diocese of Chelmsford. The church is worth visiting for its historic significance and notable memorials. It was designated a Grade I listed building in 1960 and belongs to the Evangelical tradition of the Church of England. The war memorial on the north side remembers eight local dead from the First World War, with five names from the Second World War added later. Nearby is the gravestone of Elizabeth Manning, whose contested will in 1805 led to a landmark legal ruling. The churchyard also holds a memorial to a Japanese naval officer who died in Tilbury docks in 1899. Inside, visitors find the church’s Norman architecture and the early memorial brass to Cicilye Owen. The south extension from the early 20th century adds space for worship. Outside, the war memorial and gravestones, including those of Elizabeth Manning and the Japanese naval officer, stand as quiet reminders of local and maritime history. The marshes visible from the church add to the peaceful setting.