Chapel Royal is an 18th-century church with an iconic red tower rising from the corner of a street in central Brighton. Its Regency architecture provides a clue as to its beginnings, when it was closely linked to King George IV. Chat with the clergy about today’s inclusive atmosphere in the chapel, which welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds.
The church stands on a corner of one of Brighton’s principal avenues. It has a redbrick façade, with Romanesque and Victorian architectural touches. Notice the gothic features around the entrances and the clock tower.
Enter through the main portal and join the worshippers in the tranquil ambiance inside. The interior has an airy feel, with arched windows allowing light to illuminate the white walls, narrow pillars and spacious terraces.
Attend one of the lunchtime concerts that take place on Tuesday afternoons. These usually include operatic and classical music. Visit in May, when the church is one of the venues for parts of the Brighton Festival. Arrive on a Thursday and purchase cakes and hot drinks from the charity café.
Consider the intriguing history of the church, which was completed in 1795 as a place of worship for the aristocrats in the social circles of King George IV. Known back then as Prince Regent, the future king laid the church’s foundation stone.
The chapel is open to visitors Monday through Saturday for a few hours per day. Come simply to sightsee or participate in the Sunday service.
Chapel Royal is in the southwestern corner of the Pavilion Gardens, in central Brighton. Travel by bus to the edge of the gardens or walk here from the Brighton Palace Pier. Make your way around the park to see its other highlights, including the India Gate, the Royal Pavilion and the Theatre Royal Brighton.
