St Pinnock: Churches, Viaduct and History

St Pinnock offers travellers several points of cultural and historical interest: a 19th-century railway viaduct, religious heritage and historic memorials. These include a listed gravestone commemorating three people by name, the site of an old cross and the Methodist Connon Chapel. You can use these highlights to guide your travel plans and hotel search according to your interests.

Viaduct and Construction History

St Pinnock Viaduct is a Grade II listed railway viaduct built by I K Brunel in 1854–1855. Its construction dates and builder place it in the mid-19th century; its Grade II listing adds its protected status. The viaduct is a point of reference in the local history, distinct from the religious and commemorative heritage.

Gravestone and the History of the Cross

Five metres north-west of the tower of St Pynnochus stands a listed gravestone. It commemorates Elias Geake, Catherine Geake and Austine Geake, and is topped by a classically decorated urn with deer. Its position in relation to the tower precisely locates the memorial; the names and urn give it a personal and decorative character.

The churchyard is also the site of an old cross. The cross from St Pinnock churchyard was returned to Zennor in 1956. This brings together a specific place and a dated event: the site locates the cross’s history in the churchyard, while 1956 marks its return to Zennor. The font at the Church of St Pynnochus is thought to be possibly Norman; unlike the cross’s return, this stylistic attribution remains uncertain.

Chapels, Church and Landscape

Connon Chapel adds regular community life to the historic monuments. As of 3 October 2022, the date of the parish website information, it was one of two Methodist chapels in the parish of St Pinnock. Services are held on Sunday mornings at 10:00 am, followed by tea and coffee. The chapel is one mile from the A390 junction. Check the current service schedule and travel information before visiting.

The Church of St Pynnochus lies amid the rolling hills and valleys around the West Looe River. This landscape setting complements the architectural details with the church’s surroundings. As of 3 October 2022, the parish website stated that St Pinnock Parish Church had been deconsecrated and was being converted into a private residence. If its current use is important to your plans, check the latest information in advance.

Historic Highlights for Your Trip

The dates connect these historical themes: the viaduct was built in 1854–1855, and the cross was returned to Zennor in 1956. Together, they span the period from 19th-century railway construction to a precisely dated event.

Discover more destinations: Trevone, Crowan, Portloe, Sticker, Bude, Tresmeer, Menheniot, Saint Merryn.

For the broader travel overview: Cornwall.