St George's Church

Driving back from Portland Bill we spotted this amazing church with it's grand bell tower. The road bends around the churchyard on top of the hill.Just round the corner is a big parking spot for the foodball fields, we stopped there and entered through the North gate. Thousands of beautiful pale grey headstones stretch out and round the church, glowing with their white lichens. Many graves include detailed engravings or artistic carvings, it is a very special site.The door to the church was slightly ajar, so we went in and were greeted by a local volunteer guide. He immediately got the kids on side by helping them to ring the bell, then proceeded to tell stories from the history of the church. Pressgang shootings and ghosts, the meaning of Skull and Crossbones on graves, forced closure by a vindictive bishop plus I suspect many more stories.The church is no longer in regular use, but opens up for events and ceremonies. Visitors are always welcome and there is a guide on site most days. This should definitely be on your list for a trip to Portland.

A beautiful old church with lots of interesting history, a big thank you to the volunteer who showed me round and even let me ring the bell

Very unique set of stones and even more unique creepy church :D Very nice custodian let my friend ring a bell :D

Interesting place full of history with confusing pews arrangement, vast cemetery (didn't see it all). You're allowed to ring the bell! Just keep the rope under control, tighten at all times... We're glad we came across this church.

As we left portland we saw the magnificent St George's Church. Now redundant as a place of active worship but beautifully restored and lovingly maintained by volunteers. It's unique architecture and furnishing is fascinating. Although Anglican there is a definite sway towards methodism. The story of how it came to be closed and then restored is fascinating. The lovely volunteer who was present went out of her way to make us feel welcome and tell us about the history of the building. So glad we visited.

this church initially looked and felt masonic in nature but wasnt. the church was simple in structure and layout and not that ornate. the island of portland in general felt foreign to england, likevi imagine the falklands to be. inside the church was also quite austere and a bit military in character.

Lots of history in the church and graveyard. Worth a visit.

Nice, quiet place, cemetery very neglected

Very interesting church yard, never seen so many headstones, includes an old bomb site. Did not go into the church as it costs £5 but, there is a lovely coastal walk nearby the quarry just opposite the church to take advantage of.

Amazing and unusual little church!Consecrated in 1766.Well worth a visit. It’s free but run by volunteers, so do leave a donation so future generations can enjoy this little gem too.