About Us

Welcome to the parish church of St Hilary, an open, inclusive church in the modern liberal catholic tradition in the Anglican Diocese of Truro and County of Cornwall, England.

The church tower and spire date back to the 13th century, while the nave and chancel were rebuilt in Victorian times after a major fire.   The church has a special place in the story of the Anglo- Catholic movement in Cornwall.  Fr. Bernard Walke and St. Hilary will always be linked. His story is told in the book ‘Twenty Years at St. Hilary’.  In the nineteen twenties history was made when his play, Bethlehem, performed by parishoners, was broadcast by the BBC.  The church, through Bernard Walke, has strong links with the Newlyn School of artists, his wife being a member of that circle.  Much of the present interior beauty is due to that association.

The church was re-roofed and re-decorated in 2003-4 and its works of art restored to their former glory.  The building is generally open during the day and visitors are welcome also at our Services, especially at the 9.30am Sunday Sung Eucharist, which is followed by coffee.

Our Address at St. Hilary is:  Saint Hilary Churchtown, Penzance, TR20 9DQ.

The Old School Room and Heritage Centre are next to the church.  The Heritage Centre which tells the fascinating story of St Hilary with its historic links to St Michael’s Mount. It has a rich and celebrated history from pre-historic times to the present day. The Church has unique links with West Cornwall’s literary & artistic heritage particularly the Newlyn Artists. The Procters, Harveys, Knights, Garstins and Walkes were all involved in the unique scheme of decoration of the church which has led to its Grade 1 listing. Open from May to end of September on Wednesdays 11.00 am to 4.00 pm (refreshments available).  

The Old School Room is available for hire.  Please contact Roger Calfe on 01736 763311.

View church website for more information: mountsbayub.com/st-hilary