SussexHASTINGSChristChurchOre(Hassocks5489CC0)1 Hassocks5489

Christ Church Ore

A Grade II listed Victorian, decorative gothic church full of history and fascinating surprises, set in attractive gardens containing the village cenotaph and within walking distance of Ore village shops.

Hastings, Sussex

Opening times

The church is open for weekly coffee, cake and craft activity afternoons on Tuesdays (this will soon be extended to 2 days a week) and weekly shared lunches on Thursdays. The church administrator / operations manager can also be contacted on 01424 754 290 to arrange a tour.

Address

Old London Road
Hastings
Sussex
TN35 5BG

The church was built in 1859 by Revd Twist Turner who commissioned London architects Alexander Dick Gough and Robert Lewis Roumieu, known for their curious and distinctive gothic designs. A unique octagonal turret clock tower has been described as ‘naughty’ by Nikolaus Pevsner, a notable historian. Reverend Twist Turner provided a stunning church for the poverty stricken working class area where the near bye work house was enlarged twice (famous historical novelist dame Catherine Cookson worked there).

The very large stained glass windows are all lancet, tall pointed, designs incorporating vents for the old gas lighting. These include depictions of Saint Micheal, Gabriel and then beautiful scenes of hope (holding a golden anchor) and faith (holding a cross), Jesus with families and children, as the light of the world holding a lantern and the risen Christ dazzling the women at the tomb. The seven bays of the elaborate altar window depict the Saints Peter, Matthew, Mark, Luke John and Paul with Jesus in the centre.

The chancel is a striking example of neogothic design with intricate Victorian floor tiles, a small triplet arched arcade leading to the vestry with marble columns incorporating a plaque dedicated to members of the choir who died in the first world war. The altar and reredos are oak panelled above which are plaques depicting the 10 commandments, with the Lord’s Prayer and the Creed on the north and south walls. The choir stalls and the working organ surrounds are intricately carved oak with stylishly decorated organ pipes. The wooden oak lectern and raised pulpit are tastefully carved with dedication brass plaques incorporated in their bases. Both the channel arch and rear altar wall (above the altar window) are stunningly painted in vibrant colours and gold leaf. 

There are many wall plaques around the church including the sad dedication to a 19 year old bugler who died in the South African Frontier.

  • Captivating architecture

  • Enchanting atmosphere

  • Magnificent memorials

  • Spectacular stained glass

  • Accessible toilets nearby

  • Bus stop within 100m

  • Café within 500m

  • Dog friendly

  • Level access to the main areas

  • On street parking at church

  • Parking within 250m

  • Ramp or level access available on request

  • Space to secure your bike

  • Walkers & cyclists welcome

  • Sunday traditional service at 10.30am with a lively all age service at 4pm in the afternoon.

  • Coffee, cake and craft activity afternoons on Tuesdays, one off special events: Christmas & Summer fairs and Jumble sales, Christmas Elvis Night, Carols by candle light,

  • Church of England

Contact information

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