Brighton Unitarian Church

The Brighton Unitarian Church stands in the centre of Brighton, near the Royal Pavilion and the city’s main theatres. Built in 1820 by Amon Henry Wilds, it occupies a prominent corner site on Church Road and New Road. The stuccoed Greek Revival chapel has four Doric columns at its entrance and a pediment that once bore Greek lettering. The Prince Regent sold the land to the Unitarian community, and the congregation paid £650 for the plot. John Chatfield, a local Unitarian leader, donated £200 and arranged the purchase.

The church is worth visiting for its architectural significance and historical role. Designed to resemble the Temple of Theseus in Athens, it reflects the classical scholarship of its first minister, Dr Morell. The congregation grew from a small group meeting in William Stevens’ house in 1797 to a chapel holding 350 people by 1820. After several name changes, it became the Brighton Unitarian Church in the 1940s. The building has survived storms, fires, and restorations, including repairs after the Great Storm of 1987.

Inside, the church retains its Greek Revival style with a simple, temple-like interior. The weekly Sunday service continues the tradition begun in 1820. The Grade II-listed building sits among other historic structures in Brighton and Hove. Its quiet presence contrasts with the nearby Royal Pavilion’s grandeur. Visitors can admire the Doric columns and stuccoed façade while reflecting on its long history.