St George’s Church, Tiverton
St George’s Church, Tiverton is a Grade I listed parish church in the Church of England with a capacity of around 800 people. It is located at the junction of Fore Street and St Andrews Street. The church was completed in 1733 to an earlier design, and is a fine example of Georgian architecture, considered the best in Devon. It’s though that the church may have been built as a response to dissenters who were uncomfortable with worshiping at the local parish church of St Peter’s.
The architect of St George’s Church was John James, who also designed a number of buildings in London as well as a noted rebuild of St Mary’s Church in Twickenham. The round-headed windows and rusticated quoins provide an understated appearance to the exterior of the building. The interior of the church has built-in symmetry created by what is essentially a 5 bay rectangular box with opposing doors and matching staircases. The barrel roof is adorned with plaster details of roses and the gallery walls with Ionic pilaster strips.
The interior of the church has remained largely unaltered with the exception of the Victorian pulpit and font. The texts of the Ten Commandments are housed in recessed panels which flank the alter and finely crafted monuments adorn the walls—most notably one dedicated to local merchant Henry Blagdon, who died in 1746.
St George’s Church is a popular tourist destination, and is open to the public. The church is also used for a variety of community events, including concerts, plays and exhibitions.
In addition to its architectural and historical significance, St George’s Church is also a place of worship for the local community. The church has a thriving congregation, and offers a variety of services and activities for all ages.
If you are visiting Tiverton, be sure to take some time to visit St George’s. This beautiful and historic church is a must-see for any visitor to the town.
Address
St George’s Church, Fore Street/St Andrew Street, Tiverton, Devon EX16 6FA
Historic Categorisations and Statutes
Statutory Heritage Listing
Grade: I (Grade One). This indicates it is a building of "exceptional interest." Only about 2.5% of listed buildings in England fall into this category.
List Entry Number: 1384737
Date First Listed: February 12, 1952
Significance: It is protected as a rare and outstanding example of early Georgian ecclesiastical architecture, built between 1716 and 1733. It is often cited as the only major Georgian church in Devon.
Local Designations
Heritage Significance: The church is a landmark of Tiverton’s post-fire reconstruction, representing the town's prosperity and its shift toward Classical architectural styles following the medieval period.
Conservation Area: The building is a primary focal point within the Tiverton Conservation Area, anchoring the town center and providing a visual link between Fore Street and the surrounding historic streetscape.
Site Components & Heritage Records
The Church Structure: A rectangular "preaching box" design featuring a grand Tuscan portico and a notable Baroque-influenced interior.
Churchyard and Gates: The surrounding railings and gates are also protected, contributing to the site's formal setting.
Historic Environment Record (HER): It is indexed in the Devon & Dartmoor HER under ID MDV1359.
Chronology of Historic Uses
1716–1733: Construction period, designed by architect John James (though often associated locally with John James of Greenwich).
1733–Present: Continuous use as a place of worship for the Church of England.
1840s: Significant internal reordering, including the installation of the current galleries.
20th Century: Various restoration projects to preserve the unique Bath stone and local Beer stone detailing.
Current/Recent: Active parish church and a popular venue for classical concerts and community events due to its superior acoustics.
Useful Links
St George & St Paul Tiverton (Opens in new window) Serves as a hub for a "lively Anglican church" in Devon, offering a variety of resources for both regular attendees and visitors interested in the church's community work and historical significance. According to the site and related parish resources, visitors can find:
Church Services & Worship
Service Schedule: Information on regular Sunday services.
Online Worship Links to livestreamed services and digital resources for those unable to attend in person.
Special Seasons
Community & Outreach Ministries
Lunch & Breakfast "on the Go"
Children’s Activities
Bell Ringing: Opportunities for visiting ringers or those interested in learning the skill.
Historical & Heritage Information
Georgian Architecture
Visitor Guides
Practical Resources
Church Calendar
Safeguarding & Support Contact details for safeguarding officers and links for those needing pastoral support or prayer requests.
Giving: A portal for one-off or regular donations via the Parish Giving Scheme.
Facebook: St George & St Paul Tiverton (Opens in new window) Serves as an interactive community hub that provides regular updates on church life, upcoming events, and local outreach initiatives. Visitors can access livestreamed services, video reflections, and parish announcements, while also using the platform to engage with the congregation and stay informed about the church's various ministries and social activities.
