St Martin's Bilborough

About

St Martin's is a working church serving the outer city estates of Bilborough and Strelley in Nottingham.

St Martin’s has been at the heart of the community for nearly 700 years. Its surroundings have changed almost beyond recognition, from a quiet village to a busy outer-city estate. But throughout that time St Martin’s has supported countless generations of people through all the ups and downs of life.

Evelyn Gibbs Murals

St Martin's Church is also the home of murals painted by Evelyn Gibbs one of the most talented and influential British artists of her generation. The Annunciation mural, painted in 1946 is one of the most beautiful and unusual works of art in the region. It shows the Angel Gabriel telling Mary that she will give birth to Jesus, the Son of God. Remarkably, the scene is set in Bilborough. In the background you can see local landmarks, including St Martin’s Church.

The mural was thought to have been destroyed in 1972 but has since been discovered and in 2014 was lovingly restored to its former glory for future generations to admire once again!

St Martin's Church History

St Martin’s is Bilborough’s only surviving medieval building. It was built on a piece of high ground between around 1350 and 1400. In those days Bilborough was just a small rural village, and this church was big enough to accommodate everyone who lived nearby.

In the 20th century Bilborough grew rapidly. After World War II the medieval church became too small to accommodate everyone who wanted to worship here. To solve the problem, a modern extension was built in 1972. The church was lovingly restored between 2010 and 2014. St Martin’s is a Grade 2* listed building, because it is important to the nation.
All of us have skills and talents that we could make more of – hidden treasures that are waiting to be discovered. Come and find yours at St Martin’s.

To find our more about forthcoming Hidden Treasures activities and to find out about volunteering opportunities on the Hidden Treasures project please contact info@stmartinsbilborough.org.uk.