Standing Tall at the Coast

The foundation stone for St. George’s Church was laid by the 6th Duke of Northumberland in 1882 and construction was completed in December 1884. St George’s Church is a spectacular, Grade I Listed, Victorian church designed by renowned architect, John Loughborough Pearson, architect of Truro Cathedral. St. George’s is a perfectly proportioned, French Gothic building and is finished with great attention to detail. The church has some outstanding architectural features including stone vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows by Kempe and Evetts.

The tower and spire rise to 180 feet high providing a landmark visual presence on the coast. This Listed Grade I the church is a local and regional icon, a jewel in our heritage and a beacon to local people, seafarers and travellers alike.Visitors are welcome. The church is normally open during daylight hours.

The Best Church Architect of the Day John Loughborough Pearson (1817 – 1897), architect of St George’s, was highly respected in his field. Pearson’s philosophy for all his church architecture was that it should be capable of arousing a sense of awe, of the mystery and majesty of divine worship. On the recommendation of the Council of the Royal Institute of British Architects, Queen Victoria awarded the Royal Gold Medal for outstanding architectural merit, to Pearson, in 1880. His work reflects the Gothic Revival of the period with vaulted ceilings, magnificent columns and arches featuring in his churches alongside cathedral-like dimensions. Truro Cathedral is considered Pearson’s masterpiece. Consecrated in November 1887 the Cathedral was the first British cathedral erected on a new site since the 16th century. Pearson died on 11th December 1897 and was laid to rest in Westminster Abbey.

Did you know that St George’s Church organ, by Thomas Christopher Lewis of London, is considered to be one of the best in the country. Lewis was one of the most important organ builders working in the second half of the 19th century. The organ was transported by sea from London and installed in December 1884. It is one of only a few Lewis organs nationally that have not been significantly altered.