St Alfege Church, Greenwich

Built on the site where St Alfege, Archbishop of Canterbury, was killed by the Danes in 1012 AD, the original church was rebuilt in the 13th century and then, after the roof collapsed, was replaced in 1718 by the present building. Bombed during WWII led to major restoration with the church being rededicated in 1953.

St Alfege was the local church for the royal palace which stood nearby, a favourite residence with the Tudor monarchs. Henry VII liked Greenwich for its clean air and easy access to the River Thames, converting a large manor house into what became known as the Palace of Placentia. His son, Henry, who became Henry VIII, was born at the palace in 1491 and it is thought that he was baptised here as the palace chapel had not been completed. However, the only primary source on the subject mentions a different location.

When giving evidence at the divorce proceedings of Henry VIII and Katherine of Aragon, Richard Fox, Bishop of Exeter, said he baptised Henry in the Church of the Observant Friars at Greenwich which was located next to Greenwich Palace. The problem is that it appears not to have been finished until after Henry VIII’s baptism.

The wedding of Henry’s sister, Mary Tudor, to her second husband, Charles Brandon, which took place at Greenwich Palace on the 13th May 1515 is commemorated in the below stained glass window, although his name is wrongly given as Thomas. They initially married in a secret ceremony in France as Henry was against this marriage.

The church is also famous for its connection to Thomas Tallis, a Renaissance composer, best known for his religious vocal and choral music. He was organist at St Alfege’s from 1540 to 1585 and wrote music for kings and queens, including Henry VIII. Parts of the keyboard he played are on display in the church.

It is a beautiful church, a peaceful haven in the centre of this very busy part of London. When I visited, early in the morning, a small prayer group was underway and there was every indication that this is a thriving church, serving the very heart of its community. I have barely touch on the many things which there are to look at in this lovely building and its churchyard.

I love a literary connection- and in ‘Our Mutual Friend’ by Charles Dickens, Bella Wilfer married John Rokesmith in St Alfege Church.

St Alfege Church
Greenwich Church Street
London SE10 9BJ