Talland Church – The Past

Perched above the dramatic Cornish coastline between Looe and Polperro, Talland Church has watched over Talland Bay for centuries. Dedicated to St Tallan, the church is believed to stand on an ancient Celtic holy site dating back some 1,500 years. The present building dates from the 13th century, although parts were expanded during the 15th century in the distinctive Cornish Perpendicular style.

One of the church’s most unusual features is its detached bell tower creating a striking silhouette against the sea. Inside, medieval wagon roofs, beautifully carved bench ends, and centuries-old stonework tell stories of worship, pilgrimage, and coastal life. Surrounded by legends of smugglers and seafarers, Talland Church remains one of Cornwall’s most atmospheric historic treasures.

The Green Man (pictured above) is one of the most ancient, pagan symbols to be found in the Christian Church. Seen as a powerful representation of the cycles of nature it appears pre Christianity and in Europe and Western Countries.