Our Lady of Ransom Church, Eastbourne

Our Lady of Ransom Church stands on the corner of Meads Road and Grange Road in Eastbourne, a Grade II listed building designed by Frederick Walters in the Gothic Revival style. Built between 1900 and 1903, it replaced earlier temporary chapels and expanded further in 1926 with a chancel, lady chapel and sacristy. The church sits opposite Eastbourne Town F.C. in the town centre, marking its place as a long-standing place of worship. The church’s history reflects the growth of Eastbourne’s Catholic community. It began as a mission in 1867 led by Fr Charles P. King, who later oversaw the building of a brick chapel on Junction Road. In 1890, Fr Charles Stapley opened another temporary church, and by 1901 the present building was opened by Bishop Francis Bourne, who later became a cardinal. The tower and spire were added in 1912, and further extensions were completed in 1926. Inside, the church offers a peaceful interior with Gothic Revival detailing and a sense of continuity from its early 20th-century origins. The sanctuary was refurbished in 1995 with a new altar, and the church remains an active parish. It shares its parish with St Agnes Church and St Gregory’s Church, each with their own histories and roles in the local Catholic community.