Steps, Railings, Gate Piers And Cross To South East Of Church Of St Michael

These steps, railings, gate piers, and cross are located to the south-east of the Church of St Michael in Helston. The medieval cross dates from the medieval period, while the remaining features are likely from the 18th century, possibly contemporary with the 1763 church designed by Thomas Edwards. The features are constructed of granite ashlar and granite rubble with granite dressings. A wide entrance is accessed via a wide flight of six steps leading to square gate piers with chamfered plinths and moulded cornices. A deep landing incorporates a blocked cattle grid, followed by a further flight of ten steps that curve to the left and right, rising to churchyard level, with a wall on their left. An old, possibly original wrought-iron balustrade with a scrolled handrail is present on the right side of the steps, and early 19th-century railings top the wall to the inside of the entrance. Benches flank the cattle grid; the bench on the left incorporates a medieval cross set within its back panel. A path of dressed granite flagstones leads from the top of the steps to the church porch.