St Richard

St Richard’s church was built in a Gothic Revival style - the last stone faced church built in Sussex. It contains many special features including a timber hammerbeam roof resembling the upturned hull of a boat, a Norman Capital from Chichester cathedral’s clerestory, dating from the time of St Richard, which is used as a credence table in St Anne’s Chapel, a spectacular stained glass east window, and a cross, built into the wall of the sanctuary, which was a gift from Chichester Cathedral to mark the church’s consecration in 1934. The church also has the only public facing clock in the parish.

The church is a clear landmark at the heart of the community, on the road that runs through Aldwick. From the top of the tower, Chichester Cathedral is visible to the north west and the spire of Pagham church to the south west. 

The origins of a church in Aldwick go back to 1881, when an iron church, known as the tin church, was opened, but it was cold and draughty. It was replaced by a wooden chapel in 1909. A growing population followed development of the area, which attracted huge attention when King George V convalesced here in 1928, and Queen Mary visited the new estate. By 1931 the Chapel was in a bad state of repair and alternative accommodation had to be found. Funds were raised, a plot of land purchased, the new Gothic Revival style church was designed and in 1933 the church we now know and love, St Richard’s, was built.

We have a growing choir, Sunday school and our bell ringers are regularly joined by visiting groups. Our church is also used by local schools for services and educational visits and by our local community choir for concerts. It is a place of peace, calm, reflection and interest for our community and for visitors.