English Martyrs Church Goring
Discover the 'Sistine Chapel of Goring,' a modern church housing a breathtaking 2/3 scale replica of Michelangelo's masterpiece, painted by a local ar...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, docents available
English Martyrs Church Goring
Best Time
Fewer crowds, docents available
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the 'Sistine Chapel of Goring,' a modern church housing a breathtaking 2/3 scale replica of Michelangelo's masterpiece, painted by a local artist.
"Absolutely amazing ceiling, the Sistine Chapel of Goring near Worthing."
📞 Call Ahead!
Always check for services or events before visiting to avoid disappointment.
☕ Tea & Cake
Enjoy a warm welcome with tea and cake in the hall after your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sistine Chapel Replica Ceiling
Main Nave
A breathtaking 2/3 scale copy of Michelangelo's masterpiece, painted by a single local artist.
Stained Glass Windows
Various locations
Admire the beautiful and modern stained glass, adding to the church's unique artistic appeal.
Church History & Art
Throughout the church
Learn about the church's modern design and the inspiring story behind its famous ceiling.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Service Times
Embrace the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📞 Call Ahead!
Always check for services or events before visiting to avoid disappointment.
☕ Tea & Cake
Enjoy a warm welcome with tea and cake in the hall after your visit.
💰 Donations Welcome
Support the upkeep of this unique artistic treasure. Donations are appreciated.
🚶♀️ Explore the Details
Take your time to appreciate the intricate details of the ceiling and windows.
Tips
from all over the internet
📞 Call Ahead!
Always check for services or events before visiting to avoid disappointment.
☕ Tea & Cake
Enjoy a warm welcome with tea and cake in the hall after your visit.
💰 Donations Welcome
Support the upkeep of this unique artistic treasure. Donations are appreciated.
🚶♀️ Explore the Details
Take your time to appreciate the intricate details of the ceiling and windows.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently amazed by the stunning, near-exact replica of the Sistine Chapel ceiling, often calling it the 'Sistine Chapel of Goring'. The friendly volunteers who share the history of the artwork and the church add significant value to the experience. While generally free, donations are appreciated, and checking service times beforehand is crucial to ensure access.
"Absolutely amazing ceiling
The Sistine Chapel of Goring near Worthing.
Wonderful stained glass windows.
Were given the history of the church by a friendly volunteer.
Well worth a visit."
Hazel Wicks
"Unique experience the only true copy of the Sistine chapel at 2/3 size outside of Italy. Took one man 5 years to complete by himself as opposed to Michelangelo and his team spending 4 and 1/2 years for the real thing. It really is amazing to see if you can go early late morning early afternoon. There's often a docent who will tell you a story about the ceiling. Donations are welcome. Best to call ahead in case there is a service or a funeral, in which case you won't be able to go in. Truly amazing! Recommended."
john hewitt
"A lovely church of modern design, friendly and amazing designs, and the famous painting of the Michelangelo
Sistine Chapel ceiling by a local artist.
The Goring-by-sea ceiling was painted in the 1980s by a parishioner Gary Bevans after he returned from a pilgrimage to Rome with the church's priest."
Derek Ruffell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
English Martyrs Church Goring is located in Goring-by-Sea, near Worthing. You can reach it by car, with local parking available. Public transport options might include local bus routes; checking a local transport planner is recommended for specific routes and times.
Yes, there is typically parking available near English Martyrs Church Goring. It's advisable to check for any specific parking restrictions or designated areas upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to English Martyrs Church Goring is generally free, but donations are very welcome to support the church and its upkeep. It's crucial to call ahead to confirm visiting hours as services or events can affect access.
The opening hours for English Martyrs Church Goring can vary due to services, funerals, or other events. It is highly recommended to call the church directly to confirm when you can visit to see the ceiling.
There is no specific admission fee for the Sistine Chapel replica at English Martyrs Church Goring. However, donations are gratefully accepted to help maintain this unique artwork.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The church is renowned for its stunning, near-exact replica of the Sistine Chapel ceiling, painted by a local artist. It's often called the 'Sistine Chapel of Goring'.
Absolutely! Friendly volunteers or docents are often available to share the fascinating history of the church and the creation of the ceiling replica.
While specific accessibility details should be confirmed directly with the church, modern churches like English Martyrs often aim for good accessibility. It's best to inquire about ramps or other facilities if needed.
The replica ceiling at English Martyrs Church Goring is approximately two-thirds the size of the original Sistine Chapel in Rome.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Goring-by-Sea offers various dining options, from cafes to restaurants, for visitors looking for refreshments after their church visit.
Sometimes, visitors can enjoy a cup of tea and cake with locals in the hall next door after their visit, offering a friendly community experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside English Martyrs Church Goring, especially to capture the famous ceiling. However, it's always polite to be discreet and avoid flash photography during services.
The main attraction for photos is undoubtedly the Sistine Chapel replica ceiling. Standing in the nave and looking up provides the best vantage point.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the church itself is a place of quiet reflection, the potential for friendly volunteers to share stories can make the visit interactive. If available, a short chat about the artist or the paintings can be more captivating for kids than a dry history lesson. Consider bringing a small notebook for them to sketch their favorite parts. Remember to check service times to ensure a peaceful visit for everyone.
🎨 Art & History Enthusiasts
Engage with the knowledgeable volunteers who are often eager to share the fascinating backstory of the artist, Gary Bevans, and the inspiration behind this ambitious project. Learning about the five years of solitary work adds a profound appreciation for the dedication involved. The church's modern design and stained glass also offer a contrast and complement to the Renaissance-inspired ceiling, providing a rich experience for art lovers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Sistine Chapel of Goring'
Visitors often express awe at the detail and scale of the replica, comparing it favorably to the original. The fact that it was the work of one man, a local artist, adds a deeply personal and inspiring layer to the experience. Many reviewers highlight the value of engaging with a knowledgeable docent or volunteer who can share the story behind the painting, bringing the artwork and the church's history to life.
Beyond the ceiling, the church also features beautiful stained glass windows and a welcoming atmosphere. It's a place that combines artistic wonder with community spirit, offering a peaceful and enriching visit for all who step inside. Remember to check visiting times, as services can impact access.
Planning Your Visit
Aim for a visit during late morning or early afternoon on a weekday. This timing often coincides with when docents or friendly volunteers are most likely to be present. These individuals are invaluable resources, eager to share the history and artistic journey behind the Sistine Chapel replica, turning a simple viewing into an educational and engaging experience.
Don't forget that while entry is free, donations are highly encouraged. These contributions are vital for the church's upkeep and the preservation of this remarkable artwork. Many visitors also mention the pleasant surprise of being offered tea and cake in the adjacent hall, a lovely way to connect with the local community and reflect on the visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit