St Stephen's Church

St Stephen’s Church stands in Bournemouth, close to the town centre and Meyrick Park. It is built of Purbeck stone and Bath stone in the Anglo-Catholic tradition. The nave was completed in 1883 and the chancel in 1897, with the tower added in 1908. The church is a Grade I listed building and contains a notable lady chapel. In 1888 it hosted the wedding of Oscar Bernadotte of Sweden and Ebba Munck af Fulkila. The church’s history includes many vicars, starting with Alexander Sykes Bennett in 1881. Later vicars include George Philip Trevelyan and Ian Terry, who served until 2023. The building also holds two organs: a William Hill organ from 1898 and a smaller chamber organ from 1870. Organists such as Henry Holloway and Percy Whitlock contributed to its musical life. Visitors find a grand interior with a high nave and a richly decorated chancel. The lady chapel is a quiet space for reflection. The tower offers views over Bournemouth and Meyrick Park. The church’s stonework and fittings reflect its Anglo-Catholic heritage. The organs remain in use for services and concerts.