A church has existed on the present site since Saxon times, which means the history of St Mary's in Radcliffe stretches back over a period of 1000 years! That's a long time, and the structure has been greatly adapted and modified over the years in response to the changing needs of the parishioners.

The oldest part of the church still in existence today is thought to be The Nave, built in the early 15th century by James de Radcliffe, the Lord of the Manor at the time.

Perhaps the most recognised part of St. Mary's, the Tower was rebuilt in 1665, and some of the original features were incorporated in the new tower during the rebuilding. The original clock (which has two faces) was fitted in 1785 at a cost of around 40 guineas, donated by Sir Ralph Assheton, the patron, after requests by the locals for a public clock. In 1908, the present clock was fitted, and one of the old clock faces now forms part of the pavement outside the vestry door.

Over the years, the church has moved diocese regularly! In Roman times, Radcliffe was in the diocese of York; in Saxon times in the diocese of  Lindesfarne, then of York; in Norman times in the diocese of  Lichfield; after 1540 in the diocese of Chester and since 1847 in the diocese of Manchester.

In November 1991 the parishes of St. Mary, and St. Thomas and St. John, Radcliffe became a 'Team Parish'. Although the parishes remain distinct with a priest in charge of each, they operate ministerially, along with the lay ministers, and a ministry for the entire area of Radcliffe.

The parish church of St. Mary's is today a well cared for Grade 1 listed building which continues to be the spiritual home for worshippers, and the main focus for Anglican ministry to God's people in this part of  Radcliffe.

- Adapted from 'The Parish Church of St. Mary, Radcliffe - A Guide and Brief History' by Geoffery Howard, available from the Church.