St Wynwallow
Landewednack, Cornwall
St Wynwallow is tucked away on a lane heading down to Church Cove. It is a haven of peace and quiet for visitors who come in for a chance to cool down in the summer or shelter from the elements in the winter.
St Grada & Holy Cross is in a remote position, it is approached on foot along an attractive byway or from a public footpath at the east of the church. The church tower which is mediaeval draws the eye and is a landmark, it can be seen for miles and is a waymarker for seafarers. The church is surrounded by farmland, there are very few buildings nearby, it has astounding views out to sea. The church and its environment is a haven for all forms of wildlife, birds, plants and flowers.
The building is Grade I listed which we understand takes into account the medieval tower and the church’s interior which features fine examples of serpentine, the organ, interesting stained glass, brasses and a font dating back to the 13th century. The medieval cruciform transept was was built in Norman times, altered in the 14th century by the addition of the tower and then the addition of the north chapel in the 15th century.
All was altered in the 1862 restoration which leaves the church much as it is today. The churchyard provides an interesting portrayal of local families, there are many graves which are listed in the information available in the church. We understand many people come to look up their ancestors who are laid to rest in St Grada & Holy Cross churchyard.
Nothing is known about the Celtic St Grada but the dedication to the Holy Cross is thought to be due to the legend of a Crusader, Sir Roger Whalesborough, who went on pilgrimage to the Holy Land. He obtained a piece of the true cross and secreted it in his thigh. As the ship returning from the Holy Land neared the Lizard a huge storm blew up and the crew threw Sir Roger overboard, as they thought he brought bad luck. Sir Roger vowed that if he was saved he would give the piece of the holy cross to the nearest parish he washed up in which was on the south of the Lizard. A dove led the congregation of St Grada to the knight who did give them the piece of the holy cross, kept in a silver box, as listed in an inventory of church goods in 1553, but was later stolen and never recovered. An account of this story is in the British Library and the dove is featured in the stained glass round window in the east chancel.