Ladyewell Shrine

Introduction

Ladyewell Shrine in Fernyhalgh is the official Diocesan Shrine of Lancaster. St Mary's RC Church was built in 1794 by Rev. Anthony Lund.

History

The sacred site of Ladyewell has roots stretching back to the eleventh century. During the Reformation and Penal Times, pilgrims continued to find their way to Fernyhalgh despite threats and hardship. The Burgess Altar, once a fold-away altar used for clandestine Masses, is enshrined in Ladyewell House. The present Ladyewell House was rebuilt in 1685.

Architecture and furnishings

Among the relics are those of St Thomas More, St John Fisher, St Teresa of Ávila, St Bernadette, and St Padre Pio. Ladyewell's reliquary was passed down and safeguarded through times of persecution.

The reliquary also contains relics of English Martyrs and St Thomas Becket. The shrine grounds include Stella Maris Chapel, the English Martyrs Chapel, and the holy well.

Parish life

Most pilgrimages begin with Mass and continue in prayerful procession along Fernyhalgh Lane to the shrine. Holy water is drawn from the sacred well and available for pilgrims to take home. Candles may be lit in designated chapels or at outdoor stands, and prayer petitions may be left in an intention book.

The shrine welcomes parish pilgrimages, schools, religious communities, and ecumenical groups. The shrine has facilities including meeting rooms, a small chapel, piety shop, library, and tea room.

The shrine has a tearoom in Ladyewell House open Wednesday to Saturday. The shrine's main pilgrimage season runs from May to October. The parish supports the HCPT pilgrimage to Lourdes, with the 2026 pilgrimage open to carers and assisted persons.

Visiting

Outdoor Stations of the Cross are set within a quiet wooded path behind the English Martyrs Chapel. The shrine grounds are partially accessible to disabled pilgrims, with assistance available on request. Cars use the designated car park 400 yards from the shrine. The shrine has partial wheelchair access, including to the gardens and Ladyewell House ground floor.