St Philip's Church

St Philip's Church is a stone and slate building in Barmouth with a covered porch entrance and sits on elevated ground. Inside, the nave spans three bays with an open roof, round-headed windows, and features a marble altar screen and octagonal pulpit from 1899.

The building was completed in 1862 by architect John Louis Petit and remained consecrated only in 1875 after years of conflict. The dispute centered on the language used during services, a heated issue that revealed deep divisions in Wales at the time.

The building played a role in Welsh language debates that affected how the community worshipped together. These tensions reveal how deeply questions of language shaped the religious life of the area.

To reach the church, walk up a steep lane that branches off the A496 road between Barmouth and Bontddu. The climb is manageable on foot, though visitors should be prepared for the slope and narrow path.

The interior showcases an ornate marble altar screen paired with an octagonal pulpit installed in 1899, both additions that came well after the church was built. These elements reveal how the space evolved to meet changing worship needs over time.

Location: Barmouth

Inception: 1862

Architects: John Louis Petit

Elevation above the sea: 27.3 m

GPS coordinates: 52.74400,-3.99945

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:53