St Senara's Church, Zennor

St Senara's Church is a Norman-built place of worship in Zennor with a 15th-century north aisle, set within an oval churchyard that follows ancient Celtic boundaries. The building is characterized by six bells, four of which were cast in 1926 by Gillett & Johnston and joined two medieval bells.

The current structure was built around 1150 and replaced an earlier religious site founded by Saint Senara in the 6th century. The building reflects the evolution from an early place of worship to the advanced architecture visible today.

The Mermaid Chair, a carved bench end from the 15th century, shows a mermaid with a mirror and comb and is one of the church's most noted artworks. This piece draws attention from visitors and speaks to the stories and imagination that were part of life in this region during the Middle Ages.

The churchyard is oval in shape and follows ancient boundaries, making exploration of the full grounds part of the experience. It helps to allow time for examining the cemetery and viewing the architecture both inside and from outside.

A plaque near the choir window honors John Davey, recorded as the last person with complete knowledge of the Cornish language. This memorial marks the end of an ancient local linguistic lineage and recalls a unique language story tied to this region.

Location: Zennor

Inception: 12 century

GPS coordinates: 50.19178,-5.56728

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:03