Fit for a queen
Set well back from the harbour, at the upper end of High Street, lies St Laurence, the 'old' parish church of Ramsgate. Its most famous visitor was undoubtedly Queen Victoria who worshipped there when staying in Ramsgate as a child.
Seaside specials
The UKs first seaside resorts developed in the 18th century for the aristocracy who frequented them for health and recreation.
We have chosen some of our favourite seaside getaways.
All have delightful churches nestling in their narrow lanes, or braving the elements on windswept clifftops. All are woven into the fabric of the resort, all offer a retreat from the midday sun, all provide a place to relax and take time out and all have a story to tell.
We would like to improve our map, and add any church, chapel or meeting house within 150m of the sea. If you would like to add a seaside church to our map, please email explorechurches@nationalchurchestrust.org
Some highlights
Walk in the footsteps of pilgrims
Standing strong and serene through the ages, the chapel of St Michael at the Mount’s summit dates back to the 12th century. 500 year old alabaster carvings of biblical scenes and a 15th century granite Lantern Cross now shelter in the safety of the priory walls.
Picture perfect
Rows of pretty town houses in pinks, blues, greens and creams line the harbourside at Tenby, and above them all rises the spire of the parish church of St Mary. Serving Tenby for over 800 years, the church has a delightful "waggon roof."
Cliff tops and sea breezes
Cromer was developed into a significant resort by the late Victorians, when healthy breezes were sought rather than sun drenched sands. The church of St Peter & St Paul dominates the town and it has the tallest tower in Norfolk.
An author's resting place
Scarborough is the original seaside resort; stunning scenery, glorious beaches, loads to see and do. Anne Bronte died in Scarborough in 1849. She is buried in St Mary's church graveyard; a place she loved and in her novel Agnes Grey.
On the English Riviera
With charming historic streets, scenic river location and surrounded by countryside you have to go a long way to find a town as pretty. St Petrox church at the mouth of the river is the oldest of the three parish churches, the earliest reference being in 1192.
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