St Grada and Holy Cross Church, Grade

St Grada and Holy Cross Church stands in the quiet village of Grade in Cornwall, south-west England. The building is mainly of rubble stone with large blocks of granite and serpentine in its tower. The church has separate slated roofs for the nave, chancel, vestry and porch, all steeply sloped. Its unbuttressed tower has two stages and sits at the west end. Parts of the church date from the thirteenth century, while the tower was added around 1400. The church is worth visiting for its historic features and connections. The font is from the 13th century, and a brass commemorates James Eryssy and his wife from 1522. In the 19th century, architect Edward William Godwin rebuilt the nave and chancel, retaining some original structure. The serpentine and Caen pulpit was a gift from the Lizard Serpentine Company, and Mr Cox, the company’s agent, donated the lectern. In 1885, an organ by Brewer and Co of Truro was installed and opened with a recital by Mr G R Sinclair, organist of Truro Cathedral. Inside, visitors find a mix of old and new. The 13th-century font remains, and the brass of James Eryssy and his wife can be seen. The pulpit and lectern add detail to the church’s interior. The organ, built by Brewer and Co, was installed in 1885. The church was also used as a filming location for a Doctor Who serial in 1966. Outside, the quiet village of Grade and the surrounding countryside provide a peaceful setting.