St. Peter's Church
The oldest Anglican Church in the Western Hemisphere, a historic treasure with a poignant cemetery and unique architectural features.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer tour groups
St. Peter's Church
Best Time
Fewer tour groups
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The oldest Anglican Church in the Western Hemisphere, a historic treasure with a poignant cemetery and unique architectural features.
"A touching history and incredible spot all around, worth stopping in to walk around the inside and outside."
🎯 Arrive Before Opening
To beat the crowds, aim to be at St. Peter's before its 7 AM opening.
👗 Dress Modestly
Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter the church.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Cemetery
Surrounding the church
Explore the ancient graveyard, a touching tribute to free blacks and slaves, with burial spots for babies and victims of yellow flu.
Boxed and Gated Pews
Inside the church
See the unique 17th-century pews, once rented to congregants, showcasing the church's preserved historical character.
Original Cedar Structure
Church ceiling
Marvel at the triangle-shaped, 3-beam cedar structure salvaged from the original 17th-century building.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at St. Peter's
Respectful Attire is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Before Opening
To beat the crowds, aim to be at St. Peter's before its 7 AM opening.
👗 Dress Modestly
Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter the church.
🚶 Explore the Graveyard
Don't miss the historic cemetery, especially the section for free blacks and slaves.
🏛️ Check Interior Tour Hours
Interior tour times can be limited; verify before your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Before Opening
To beat the crowds, aim to be at St. Peter's before its 7 AM opening.
👗 Dress Modestly
Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter the church.
🚶 Explore the Graveyard
Don't miss the historic cemetery, especially the section for free blacks and slaves.
🏛️ Check Interior Tour Hours
Interior tour times can be limited; verify before your visit.
📸 Respectful Photography
Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid disruptive photography inside.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St. Peter's Church for its profound historical significance and well-preserved character. Many highlight the touching stories within the historic cemetery, particularly the section for free blacks and slaves, and the unique architectural features like the boxed pews. While the interior tour hours can be limited, the overall experience is considered a valuable glimpse into the island's past.
"This was an amazing historic treasure within the wonderful town of St. George. The church had a delightful feel and preserved it's historic character.
I loved the memorial stones and tablets set within the church's walls honoring those who died on the island and preserving their story.
Be sure to check out the historic cemetery surrounding the church as well. It is another historic delight."
Zachary Hottel
"This church is incredible. There is also a cemetery behind it that was for free black men and slaves from all around the world. It's truly amazing even burial spots for babies and a lot of people who suffered from the yellow flu just an incredible spot all around it was a. Touching history."
DraMatik Gonzalez
"One of the most historical places in Bermuda. St. Peters is reputed to be the first church ever built on the island - predating even the first government. In fact the meeting of the first governing body is said to be held there.
The original church has been renovated and added on to over the years. And there is a triangle shaped, 3-beam, cedar structure built into the ceiling that is supposed to be salvaged from the original building.
Also this is the first church I have seen where all the pews are boxed and gated! Apparently, in past times, in order to secure further finances for the church, the pew sections were rented to those who could afford them. Tiny, narrow staircases, one on the left and one on the right, at the back of the church lead up to balcony seating.
There are historical church artifacts, photos and other memorabilia on display, paying tribute to past visits by the royal family as well.
The sectioned graveyards surrounding the church have been preserved for centuries. There is a separate graveyard at the back, to the west, designated for slaves and free blacks of times gone by. Church services and functions are still held there up to to the present day."
Angela S. M. Dill (Timeless* Angel)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Peter's Church is located in the historic town of St. George. It's easily accessible by car, taxi, or public bus. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk within the town itself.
Limited street parking is available in St. George. It's recommended to arrive early or consider using public transport to avoid parking hassles.
Absolutely! St. George is a popular day-trip destination, and St. Peter's Church is a key historical site within the town.
Walking is the best way to experience the charm of St. George and its historical sites, including the church and its cemetery.
While the exterior and cemetery are generally accessible, the interior may have limitations due to its historic nature. It's best to inquire directly about specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While walking around the exterior and the historic cemetery is free, there may be a nominal fee for interior tours. Check current admission policies before your visit.
The church typically opens for individuals around 7 AM, with tour groups starting later. However, hours can vary, so it's advisable to confirm them online or upon arrival.
To beat the crowds, aim to arrive before the 7 AM opening. This will help you experience the church with fewer people.
This St. Peter's Church is not St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. If you are looking for the Vatican, that is a separate destination in Italy.
St. Peter's Church still holds services and functions. It's worth checking their schedule if you're interested in attending a service or event.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
St. Peter's Church is renowned as the oldest Anglican Church in the Western Hemisphere, with a rich history dating back to the 17th century.
You must cover your shoulders and knees to enter the church. Casual, respectful attire is recommended.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for signage or ask a staff member if photos are permitted inside.
The cemetery is historically significant, particularly the section designated for free blacks and slaves, offering a poignant glimpse into the island's past.
Yes, the church features unique boxed and gated pews and a preserved cedar structure in the ceiling salvaged from the original building.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic cemetery offers many atmospheric photo opportunities. The exterior of the church itself is also picturesque, especially with the surrounding greenery.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and religious sites. It's essential to check local regulations before flying a drone.
While general photography might be allowed, flash photography or professional shoots may be prohibited. Always be respectful of the sacred space.
Early morning or late afternoon light can provide beautiful, soft lighting for exterior shots. The cemetery can be atmospheric at any time.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for both interior and exterior shots. A wide-angle lens can capture the scale of the church and cemetery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the church interior is a place for quiet reflection, the surrounding grounds and the town of St. George provide space for kids to explore. Keep in mind the dress code for the church interior, so pack accordingly. The unique boxed pews might also capture their attention as an unusual feature.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay close attention to the preserved cedar structure and the boxed pews, which offer tangible links to the past. The African Diaspora Heritage Trail connection is crucial for understanding the broader historical context and the lives of all who contributed to the island's story.
🚶 Budget Travelers
If you choose to enter the church for an interior tour, there's usually a nominal fee, making it an affordable cultural experience. Combine your visit with a walk through the charming town of St. George, which is also free to explore, making for a rich and inexpensive day out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
One of the most striking features is the triangle-shaped, 3-beam cedar structure incorporated into the ceiling, believed to be salvaged from the original building. Inside, you'll find unique boxed and gated pews, a testament to historical practices where pew sections were rented to congregants for financial support. These architectural and social details offer a fascinating window into the past.
The church is also a significant stop on the African Diaspora Heritage Trail, highlighting its role in the lives of enslaved and free black individuals. The surrounding cemetery is a poignant reminder of their presence and struggles, with burial spots for infants and victims of historical epidemics like the yellow flu.
Exploring the Historic Cemetery
Walking through the cemetery, you'll encounter memorial stones and tablets that honor the lives and stories of those laid to rest. The preservation of these grounds ensures that their legacies are not forgotten. It's a deeply moving experience that complements the historical insights gained from the church interior.
Even if you don't go inside the church, a walk through the graveyard is highly recommended. It provides a unique historical context and a sense of the community's past.
Respect and Etiquette
Visitors are reminded that this is a sacred space. Disruptive behavior, such as loud conversations or inappropriate actions like dancing inside the church, is strictly prohibited and can lead to being asked to leave.
When visiting, be mindful of ongoing services or events. Photography policies should also be observed; while general photos might be permitted, flash photography or professional shoots may be restricted. Always check for signage or ask for clarification to ensure you are being respectful of the site and its worshippers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit