St Peter's Church, Tiverton

St Peter's Church is a Grade I listed parish church in Tiverton featuring medieval architecture with soaring stone walls, large stained glass windows, and a prominent bell tower. The building displays elaborate stonework and decorative details that reflect centuries of craftsmanship and modification.

The church was founded in 1073, establishing a religious center in Tiverton that has endured for nearly a thousand years. Major architectural reworking occurred during two distinct periods in the 1800s, transforming how the building appeared while maintaining its role in the community.

The church sits at the heart of Tiverton's town center, where local residents pass by daily and the building anchors the community's religious and social life. Its presence shapes how people move through and gather in this part of town.

The church has limited opening hours during the week, so most visitors view the building from outside and appreciate its exterior details. Weekday mornings are generally quieter, allowing you to observe the stonework and tower without crowds disrupting your visit.

A significant musical moment connects this place to a well-known composer: Mendelssohn's Wedding March received its first performance here during a local wedding. This 1847 event meant the melody spread from this church into wider use, eventually becoming the standard recessional music heard at weddings everywhere.