St Mary Magdalene's Church, Walkeringham

St Mary Magdalene’s Church stands in the quiet village of Walkeringham in Nottinghamshire. The building dates from the 13th century and is listed Grade I for its historic importance. After years of disuse, the roof was repaired by 2021 and the 1864 pipe organ restored. The church held a single service that July but remains closed for regular worship while more work is done. It now belongs to the Oswaldbeck Benefice, which links six local parishes together. The church’s long history and careful restorations make it worth the journey. The 1864 organ had gone unplayed for twenty years before craftsmen brought it back to life. A special service in 2021 marked the feast of St Mary Magdalene, showing the building’s continuing role. Yet the lack of churchwardens and a Parochial Church Council has kept the doors closed since then. Its place in the Oswaldbeck Benefice keeps the building alive in local memory. Inside, visitors find a restored pipe organ standing near the west end. The 13th-century structure still shapes the nave and chancel despite the long closure. The village itself offers a peaceful setting beside the River Idle. Walkeringham’s other Grade I listed buildings add to the quiet charm of the area.