C.S. Lewis at St Mark’s - The Lion on the Hill Tour

Stories from St Mark’s – The Lion on the Hill

Insights and stories that intertwine with the rich history of Belfast in this enchanting Gothic Revival church while uncovering its connection to the magical world of Narnia.
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​Min/Max Number of People: 1-20 (public tour), ​6-50​ (private tour)
Duration: 1.5 hours
Price per person: £10pp (children under 16 FREE)

• E: visitstmarksdundela@gmail.com
• T: +44 28 9013 7436

Inclusions:

• Guided tour by a parishioner of St. Marks
• Information leaflet available in French, German, and Spanish
• Tea/coffee and locally made shortbread served in the church following the tour
• Option to purchase memorabilia from the gift display

Ten per cent of the money raised from our tours goes to charity. Our current charity is Cause, which supports local people who are caring for someone with a serious or severe mental illness: cause.org.uk/about-us/

Perched above the lough in East Belfast, St. Mark's Church, Parish of Dundela is just a short drive from the vibrant Titanic Quarter with its elevated position standing as a beacon of witness for miles around. Built in the Gothic Revival style in 1878 by the esteemed Victorian architect William Butterfield, this Grade A listed building and its towering 150-foot bell tower stand proudly on Bunker Hill.

Explore and connect with the rich history of St. Mark's, intimately intertwined with Belfast's linen and shipping industries. Marvel at the architectural prowess of Butterfield, hailed by Poet Laureate Sir John Betjeman as being "at his best" in crafting this spiritual haven. The familiar chime of ten bells regularly ring out and can be heard across the city of Belfast.

Immerse yourself in the stories of the prominent families who shaped Belfast's industrial landscape, and uncover the connections between St. Mark's and C.S. Lewis, the famed author of The Chronicles of Narnia, who was baptised in this sacred space. Admire the exquisite stained glass, including the Lewis Memorial window crafted by Michael Healy. Follow the intricate floor tiles leading to the sanctuary mosaics, where the search for carved 'Hidden Angels' adds an element of intrigue and fun.
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As the sound of the Compton organ fills the air, take a moment for quiet reflection or step outside to explore the grounds beautifully kept with the support of volunteers and the community.

Location and Parking

• ​St. Marks, 2 Sydenham Avenue, Belfast BT4 2DR, Northern Ireland​
• Google Co-ordinates- https://maps.app.goo.gl/s8ugvnWZkkmH5bQRA​
• There is parking available for up to 20 cars in the church grounds, entrance off Holywood Road, and additional parking for 6/8 cars at the Parish Hall, 2 Sydenham Avenue.
• There is coach parking available for to 2 x 35 seater coaches.
• Nearest E-Vehicle charging point is at 90 Sydenham Road BT3 9DJ or IKEA Belfast BT3 9EJ

Accessibility

• There is level access into the church, with a disabled toilet facility and baby changing facilities.
• Access to the chancel, side chapel and sanctuary is via 3 stone steps, with handrails to assist.
• There is a hearing loop system in place.
• Guide dogs and assistance dogs can be accommodated by prior arrangement.
• Child Friendly activities are available, with a small carpeted play area.
• Please note that organ music will be played, and volume can be lowered to accommodate those with sound sensitivities.
• If you have any concerns regarding the accessibility of our church or experiences, please contact us to discuss in more detail.