The story of St. Mark’s begins in 1870 – a whole 27 years before the permanent church was built. This was when a building known as the “Navvy Mission” was dedicated for the use of those employed in building the railway viaduct. Almost 20 years later, after the use of a metal hut for worship for a congregation of over 3500, the land for the church was donated by the then Duke of Portland and the rest was purchased from the Lord of the Manor of Mansfield. It was then that the Reverend A. G. Henley engaged the services of leading church architect, Temple Moore.

The foundation stone was laid by the Duke of Portland on 26 May 1896 accompanied by the first Bishop of Southwell who performed the service. Local builder, Thomas Fisher, constructed the church using stone from Mansfield Woodhouse’s quarry which was donated by the duke. The church was consecrated on 24<span style="font-size: 12px;"> </span>November of the following year.

The original design by Temple Moore had a large, significant tower where the south gateway is. However, the cost of this grand structure was more than what the congregation had raised so they had to settle for a smaller tower. From there, the church was furnished with two stained glass windows by Charles Eamer Kempe at the west end. Kempe was a Victorian designer and manufacturer of stained glass. His studios produced over 4,000 windows, some of which are in cathedrals under the patronage of the Royal Family. The church is recorded in the National Heritage List for England as a designated Grade II* listed building. Behind the church, the church hall is also a Grade II listed building. The organ dates back to 1900 and was built by Brindley & Foster of Sheffield. It was renovated by Henry Willis and Sons in 1955, Midland Organ Builders in 1974 and more recently by Anthony Herrod. A complete re-build was finished in 2014 by Henry Groves.

Tragically, in August 1904, the Rev. A.G. Henley drowned whilst on holiday in Devon with his family. His successor, the Rev. H.L. Day built Henley Memorial Hall in memory of his predecessor. The hall was designed by the architect of the church, Temple Moore, and cost £1,700. It is also believed that a statue standing by the cross above the altar is Reverend Henley as he was so loved by his congregation. There is also a stained glass window dedicated to him by his sisters.

When war broke out in 1939 Henley Hall was made available to the troops and a canteen was set up for them. This served between 3,500-4,000 meals in some weeks and dances were also held. Refugees were welcomed at St Mark’s and some Ukrainians put on their own service.

Today, St Mark's is a place of traditional worship - come and be part of our story.