St Nicholas' Chapel And Lighthouse

ILFRACOMBE

SS5247 LANTERN HILL 853-1/7/95 St Nicholas' Chapel and Lighthouse 15/06/51

GV I

Chapel (now disused) incorporating a lighthouse lantern, situated on a high rock, known as Lantern Hill, between the sea and harbour. Possibly C14 and known to be in existence by early C15. By the time of Henry VIII used as a lighthouse but present lantern C18/early C19. Rubble, part rendered and slated roofs, that over western chancel lower and crowned by lantern. Bulging west end an early C20 reinforcement covering the original wall behind with 2 lancet windows. Rectangular plan approx. 31'6" x 13'3" internally; reverse orientated with gabled rubble porch at east end, lit by windows and having plank door, and lean-to porch on south elevation with sash window to right. North elevation has a sash and a casement window and roof dormer. To right, the projecting base of a presumed turret including the window sill. Octagonal lantern with ogee roof surmounted by a copper fish-shaped weather vane with cut-out letter "B" and date "1819". INTERIOR not inspected but believed to retain C18 internal fittings. Date of closure for worship not known but seems to have been used for various purposes over last 200 years; during the C19 it was used as a dwelling house, reading room and laundry. This chapel is a prominent and important feature of the harbour. (National Monuments Record: Hussell AT: Measured drawing: Sept.: 1943-).

Listing NGR: SS5251247890