St Anthony of Padua Church

St Anthony of Padua Church is a Catholic parish church in Rye with Romanesque Revival features including rounded arches and carved stonework. The building sits on Watchbell Street and displays the ornamental detailing typical of this architectural style.

The building was constructed in 1929 and replaced an earlier church that had stood on the site. It became one of the first Conventual Franciscan locations in England since religious communities returned after the Reformation.

The interior layout follows a Greek cross design with Byzantine touches that shape how visitors move through the space. You notice how these architectural choices create a feeling of openness while drawing your eye toward the sanctuary.

The church is located on Watchbell Street in Rye's town center and is easy to spot when walking the area. It welcomes visitors during the day, though it is advisable to check ahead for special occasions or service times.

Architect John Bernard Mendham designed the building between 1927 and 1929, deliberately mixing Romanesque and Byzantine design elements. This unusual style combination remains visible today and shows the architectural experimentation of the early twentieth century.

Location: Rye

Inception: June 30, 1929

Architectural style: Romanesque Revival architecture

Website: http://thegreyfriars.org/#!rye-east-sussex/cylw

GPS coordinates: 50.94923,0.73289

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:05