St Wyllow’s Church is one of the most impressive churches in Cornwall, located above Pont Creek off the estuary of the River Fowey between Bodinnick and Polruan. This church is an impressive Grade I-listed building that has been carefully restored over the years with traces of Norman work in tower arches and on the south doorway. The church is an extraordinary work of art and considered by Simon Jenkins as one of England’s Thousand Best Churches.
The church has a long history, with the site believed to have housed earlier buildings. However, the church we see today was reconstructed at the end of the 14th century. The tower, nave, and north arcade date from that period, with the south arcade built around 1500. The porch may have been rebuilt in the 17th century.
E H Sedding led the restoration of the church in 1904/5 and found it to be a “fascinating storehouse of Christian art… no other Cornish church contains more of its old woodwork.” The church features original unceiled waggon roofs throughout, complemented by chamfered ribs in the north aisle. The elaborate bench ends date back to around 1500, making them a rare and valuable work of art.
The church’s architecture and design are stunning, with several notable features that make it stand out from other churches in Cornwall. These include:
Norman Work in Tower Arches and South Doorway
St Wyllow’s Church has traces of Norman work in the tower arches and jambs on the south doorway, indicating that earlier churches existed on the site. The church was reconstructed at the end of the 14th century, so we can assume the Norman architecture influenced the design of the new building.
Stone Built into the Main Doorway
A stone is built into the main doorway indicating that it is from the eighth century or earlier. This makes St Wyllow’s one of the oldest churches in the region.
Original Uncelled Waggon Roofs
According to Sedding, St Wyllow’s has original unceiled waggon roofs throughout. The roof design is a rare and unusual feature, making it a valuable piece of architecture and history.
Elaborate Bench Ends
The church’s elaborate bench ends date back to around 1500, adding to the richness and beauty of this historic building.
North Aisle
The unceiled waggon roof with chamfered ribs, arches, pillars and piers form the eye-catching feature of the North Aisle.
Stained Glass Windows
St Wyllow’s Church contains 18th century stained glass windows, which add to the beauty of the building.
The restoration of the church has been careful and respectful, with a focus on preserving its history, design, and rare features. The church is an impressive example of 14th-century architecture, and its unique features make it a valuable part of Cornwall’s history and culture.
Overall, St Wyllow’s Church is a magnificent building that has been carefully restored to maintain its original beauty and design. The church’s unique features and history set it apart from other churches in Cornwall and make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the area.
Posted by Baz Richardson – now away on 2018-07-22 11:35:10