It's About the Journey Not Just the Destination

Christ Church St Laurence Sydney

Posted by:

Shaun D

On:

14 November 2026

Australia, Building, Church, New South Wales, Sydney

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Christ Church St Laurence Sydney

Christ Church St Laurence is one of Sydney’s oldest Anglican churches. Located at 812 George Street, near Central Station, this historic building provides a peaceful retreat from the surrounding city streets. Its Gothic Revival architecture, beautiful stained-glass windows and richly decorated interior make it worth visiting.

The parish began in 1838, when services took place in a brewery storeroom in Surry Hills. On 1 January 1840, Bishop William Grant Broughton laid the foundation stone of the present church. Construction continued over several years, and Bishop Broughton consecrated the building on 10 September 1845.

Architect Henry Robertson originally designed the church. However, prominent colonial architect Edmund Blacket later contributed significantly to its completion and development. His work included the ceiling, window tracery and other architectural details.

The church features pointed Gothic arches, stone columns, decorative timberwork and colourful stained-glass windows. Inside, an elaborate sanctuary, marble steps and religious artwork create an impressive setting. The stained-glass windows were installed gradually between 1845 and 1912.

A fire in 1905 damaged parts of the interior. Architect John Burcham Clamp supervised restoration work, helping preserve the building’s historic character.

The church also has a long history of supporting disadvantaged members of Sydney’s community. Its charitable activities remain an important part of parish life.

Our Visit October 2026

We visited during the Sydney is Open 2026 organised by Museums of History NSW. This meant that areas of the church not usually open to visitors were accessible. This included the bell tower and rectory.

Our first stop was the bell tower. The local bell ringers explained how bell ringing works and put on several demonstrations. Once finished we were able to see the bells located higher in the tower, something only available during events such as this. You do have to have a head for heights though, as the ladder is quite tall.

The bells Christ Church St Laurence Sydney — The bells

The inside of the church is beautiful. The stained-glass windows are quite amazing and the artwork around the sanctuary is exceptional.

Interior sanctuary and high altar Christ Church St Laurence Sydney — Interior sanctuary and high altar

We were also able to see part of the rectory with its beautifully maintained interior. Despite being on busy George St, it was amazingly quiet inside.