The parish church of St. Newlyna, St. Newlyn East, Cornwall

Image: © Derek Voller Taken: 6 May 2016

Norman origins,parts of which can be seen in the lower parts of the Lady Chapel and the Chancel walls. In the 14th century it was enlarged with a South chancel aisle and a North door. The 15th century saw , the South aisle, the South door and the tower constructed, which now carries a peal of six bells. By the early 19th century some much needed restoration work was done and even more in 1883 when the church was in a state of great decay. St. Newlyna, tradition says, was a British princess who came here from Ireland and landing at Holywell Bay walked to the place where this church now stands. Here striking her staff in the ground she said, "Let a Church be built". Traditions differ as to what eventually happened to St. Newlyna. One says she was beheaded near here by her own father, because she refused to enter a distasteful marriage he had arranged for her, A few years ago the head of a 15th century Lantern Cross was found buried in the churchyard and which now stands near the font. On its right hand side can be seen a female figure holding a head in her arms. It must surely be Saint Newlyna.

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