
St Uny Church Lelant
An ancient church in Lelant, Cornwall, offering breathtaking views over St Ives Bay and a glimpse into local history.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

St Uny Church Lelant
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ancient church in Lelant, Cornwall, offering breathtaking views over St Ives Bay and a glimpse into local history.
"A little gem well worth a peek when walking the South west coast path."

📸 Capture the Views
The views over St Ives Bay are breathtaking. Don't forget your camera!
🚶♀️ Walk the Coast Path
St Uny is a gem along the South West Coast Path. Perfect for a scenic walk.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stunning St Ives Bay Views
Church grounds
Panoramic vistas across St Ives Bay, perfect for a brisk walk or a leisurely stroll.
Picturesque Wedding Venue
Church exterior
An ancient and attractive church, frequently chosen for summer weddings.
Historic Graveyard Exploration
Church graveyards
Discover centuries-old gravestones, including those of local artists and fishermen.
Swallow Nest Observation
Church interior/exterior
Witness the hopeful sight of swallow chicks in their nest, a symbol of nature's resilience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Respecting a Sacred and Historic Site
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Views
The views over St Ives Bay are breathtaking. Don't forget your camera!
🚶♀️ Walk the Coast Path
St Uny is a gem along the South West Coast Path. Perfect for a scenic walk.
☕ Visit the Heritage Centre
Enjoy tea and cakes while exploring local history exhibits.
🕊️ Respect the Peace
Remember this is a place of worship and remembrance. Be mindful of the quiet atmosphere.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Views
The views over St Ives Bay are breathtaking. Don't forget your camera!
🚶♀️ Walk the Coast Path
St Uny is a gem along the South West Coast Path. Perfect for a scenic walk.
☕ Visit the Heritage Centre
Enjoy tea and cakes while exploring local history exhibits.
🕊️ Respect the Peace
Remember this is a place of worship and remembrance. Be mindful of the quiet atmosphere.
💍 Summer Wedding Spot
Popular for weddings; check for events if you prefer quiet visits.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
St Uny Church is widely praised for its stunning location and panoramic views over St Ives Bay, making it a highlight for walkers and visitors alike. Its picturesque, ancient architecture and role as a popular wedding venue are frequently mentioned positives. However, some visitors note that certain graveyard areas can appear unkempt during summer months.
"A little gem well worth a peek when walking the South west coast path"
Jeroen Stein
"Easy to see why St Uny church is popular for weddings in the summer – a very picturesque ancient church. The path to the beach runs right by the church and in the summer the roads are full of parked cars. Quite extensive graveyards around the church, and from the church grounds excellent views across the estuary and out towards the coast. Useful information boards inside the church."
Roy Sirl
"Idyllic location often rushed past on way to beach (path from car park goes past church on the right and Heritage Centre on the left). The church is old and attractive with some impressive stained glass windows, but it is the views that enthral me day after day. A peaceful retreat. The graveyards feel like areas of tranquility as many graves around church and on way into Heritage Centre area are very old. Lots of interesting history (by the church see the gravestone of a man from 1800’s that illustrates the high infant death rate, more recent fisherman graves, large local business family with factory visible from graveyard etc). There are 4 graveyards - 2 by church, 1 closed. 2 by Heritage Centre, 1 closed.
In summer the graveyard areas either side of path can look a mess as cost savings and supposed wild flower and bee issues reduce cutting. There seems to be a lack of respect for the graves with trees growing in graves and area of graves completely overrun. A shame, but it should not put you off exploring the Heritage Centre area. The signage is another illustration of religion gone wrong, one of the most famous graves, a local artist is omitted as in the grave is in the open graveyard which is Methodist. The pamphlet in the church is more open on the topic.
From April to end October the Heritage building is open with lovely teas and cakes served. There are things to buy but it also stores a lot of local history in pamphlets and exhibitions, well worth the visit to sit, read and relax.
BTW, was used for filming early in year for a Rosamunde Pilcher German broadcasting programme. They even brought s gravestone."
John Thornton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St Uny Church is located in Lelant, Cornwall. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby, especially for those heading to the beach. It's also a picturesque stop for those walking the South West Coast Path.
Yes, there is parking available, particularly for visitors heading to the adjacent beach. During peak summer months, roads can become busy with parked cars.
The nearest train station is Lelant, which is a short walk from the church. Buses also serve the Lelant area, connecting it to surrounding towns. Check local bus timetables for specific routes and times.
The church grounds and surrounding paths are generally accessible, though some older gravestones and uneven terrain might present challenges. The Heritage Centre is typically more accessible.
Many visitors combine a visit to St Uny Church with a walk along the South West Coast Path, a trip to the beach, or exploring the nearby Heritage Centre.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to St Uny Church and its grounds is generally free. Donations are welcome to help with the upkeep of this historic site.
The church is typically open during daylight hours for visitors to explore. However, it is an active place of worship, so access may be limited during services or events.
The graveyards surrounding St Uny Church are open to the public and do not have an entrance fee. Visitors are asked to be respectful of the resting places.
While St Uny Church is a popular wedding venue, visitors can usually still access the church grounds. However, it's advisable to check for any specific restrictions on wedding days.
Yes, the adjacent Heritage Centre often has information boards and pamphlets about the church's history and local area. They also serve teas and cakes.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find impressive stained glass windows and historical information boards detailing the church's past.
The graveyards feature very old gravestones, including those of local artists, fishermen, and prominent local families, offering a glimpse into the area's history.
Yes, there are gravestones illustrating historical infant mortality rates and those of notable local figures.
Visitors have spotted swallow chicks nesting at the church, a heartwarming sight.
Nearby activities include walking the South West Coast Path, visiting the beach, and exploring the Heritage Centre for local history and refreshments.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Heritage Centre adjacent to the church offers lovely teas and cakes, providing a pleasant spot to relax.
Yes, the grounds around the church and the nearby coastal areas are suitable for picnics, offering beautiful views.
The Heritage Centre typically serves light refreshments, including teas, coffees, and cakes, making it a charming spot for a break.
Lelant village has a few local pubs and cafes that offer dining options, providing a taste of local Cornish cuisine.
Yes, the Heritage Centre is a convenient option for refreshments. Alternatively, you can find eateries in the nearby village of Lelant or in the larger town of St Ives.
📸 📸 Photography
The church's picturesque setting, the stunning views over St Ives Bay, and the historic gravestones offer numerous photographic opportunities.
Absolutely, its ancient architecture and scenic surroundings make it a highly sought-after location for wedding photography.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be ideal for capturing the beauty of the church and the bay, minimizing harsh shadows.
Generally, photography for personal use is permitted. However, for commercial photography or filming, it's advisable to seek permission.
Yes, if you are lucky enough to spot the swallows, capturing their nests and chicks can make for unique and heartwarming photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Walkers and Hikers
💍 Couples and Wedding Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rich History of St Uny Church
Visitors can find information boards inside the church that shed light on its historical significance and architectural evolution. The church has also been recognized for its role in local culture, even being used as a filming location for television programs. This deep connection to the past makes St Uny Church a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in the heritage of Cornwall.
Exploring the St Uny Church Graveyards
While the historical significance is undeniable, some reviews mention that in summer, certain areas of the graveyard can appear unkempt due to cost-saving measures and a focus on wildflower growth. Despite this, exploring these grounds provides a unique perspective on local history and the passage of time. Remember to tread respectfully, as these are areas of remembrance.
St Uny Church: A Photographer's Delight
The church itself is an ancient and attractive building, making it a picturesque subject, especially for those interested in historical architecture. It's also a popular spot for wedding photography, highlighting its romantic and scenic appeal. Beyond the church and bay, the historic graveyards provide unique photographic subjects, with weathered stones and inscriptions telling silent stories. If you're lucky, you might even capture the charming sight of swallow chicks in their nest, adding a touch of nature's beauty to your shots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit