GloucestershireCLEARWELLStPeter(steveslaterCC-BY2.0)1 SteveSlater

St Peter

This beautiful church is to be found in the historic village of Clearwell in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire.

Clearwell, Gloucestershire

Opening times

Daily from 10am to 4pm.

Address

Church Road
Clearwell
Gloucestershire
GL16 8LF

In a lovely position, next to Clearwell Castle, St Peter's church was commissioned by the Dowager Countess of Dunraven after her return to Clearwell Court in 1855. She wanted to build a church which was fitting for the village.

From 1863 plans were drawn up with the architect, John Middleton, land was acquired and the church was built. It replaced an older church (1828) on the site of the Cemetery Chapel in Clearwell. St Peter's was consecrated on April 5th 1866 and people have worshipped here ever since.

The church is a fine example of mid 19th century 'French Gothic' style. It is elaborately decorated with rich stone carvings, coloured stonework and a wonderfully stencilled roof. The stained glass windows in the the chancel are by Hardman, whose work can also be seen in the houses of Parliament, and the ornate organ was built by Telford of Dublin, considered to be Ireland's master organ builder.

The church stands within its own churchyard, which has an impressive avenue of yew trees and its proximity to Clearwell Castle contributes to its popularity for weddings.

  • Spectacular stained glass

  • Social heritage stories

  • Fascinating churchyard

  • Enchanting atmosphere

  • Captivating architecture

  • Walkers & cyclists welcome

  • Steps to enter the church or churchyard

  • Ramp or level access available on request

  • On street parking at church

  • Level access to the main areas

  • Dog friendly

  • Café within 500m

  • Bus stop within 100m

  • Accessible toilets in church

  • Church of England

Contact information

Other nearby churches

Cemetery Chapel

Clearwell, Gloucestershire

Clearwell Cemetery (Mortuary) Chapel was designed by the renowned Gothic Revival architect John Middleton, and was opened in 1867.

All Saints

Newland, Gloucestershire

Traditionally and affectionately known as the Cathedral of the Forest, dating back to the early 1200s before the village of Newland came into existence.

Good Shepherd

Broadwell, Gloucestershire

Having started as a mission church in 1890, the current permanent church, designed by William Leah, was built in 1938.