St Peter

St Peter’s church opened in 1856 as a Chapel of Ease to St Mary’s Swansea.

Its existence was entirely due to the missionary zeal of the Welsh speaking curate, Revd EG Williams, who carried out services in cottages and even down the mines before the start of the morning shift in order to form the nucleus of the first congregation. An acre of land was acquired from John Dillwyn Llewellyn of the Penllergare estate on a piece of elevated land and a simple rectangular building was designed by local architect Richard Kyrke Penson.

The church comprising of a sanctuary, chancel, nave and bell cote had a seating capacity of 300 which included a north wall gallery usually occupied on a Sunday by the children from the nearby Cockett Homes. We are proud to have the Bible presented to the first couple to be married in the new church on the hill. The building was enlarged and improved in 1882 with the addition of a south aisle and removal of the gallery. The church has always been cherished by the parishioners and this is shown in the many beautiful stained glass windows, furniture, fabric and other artefacts which were gifts to the Glory of God and in loving memory of past members or memorable events and all with equally memorable stories.

The suspended rood cross, the work of the celebrated Welsh artist John Petts dominates the chancel step. Measuring 11x8 foot it is a mosaic of the Crucified Christ made from 30,000 tiny pieces of Italian glass and is an iconic art work. The church still has the original pine pews but today these are made relatively comfortable and eye catching with the addition of hassocks and pew cushions all made and donated by members to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the church in 2006.

Over six acres of graveyard surrounds the church, with over 23,500 souls, including 40 military graves. There are stunning views from this now peaceful wildlife haven that surely would enhance a visit to St Peter’s Cockett where a welcome is assured.