St Peters Church Anglican Glenelg

This is a beautiful church in a striking position in Glenelg. I love how it’s situated in a central piece of land where several streets meet, which means you can come across it from many directions and suddenly see the whole thing.
The recent extensions are definitely contentious. Though I’m normally against mixing modern and traditional, I actually think they’ve done a great job of the extensions here. You can’t notice them until you’re at the eastern end, when you see large glass doors leading into a modern space. I like that you get a very different impression depending upon the direction you approach from.
Inside, the new segment is neat, modern and functional. No complaints there. However the part really worth seeing is the old interior, which has been beautifully done up and maintained over time. My favourite part, in a place full of beautiful architecture, is actually the kneelers. Each has been embroidered by a church group, and they’re all different. I love this little touch, and how great they look up against the wood of the pews.
As a functioning church, they have a contemporary «jam» service, which seeks to move with the times, as much as a church service can. It’s not everyone’s taste, but it’s great to have the option of a non-​traditional service in such beautiful surrounds.

Not happy Jan. St Peters Anglican Church at Glenelg is a beautiful church situated on Torrens Square just past Coles supermarket in Nile Street. So why am I not happy? Well they’ve just put an extension on the Church and it’s not good.
I was devastated on a recent trip to the Bay to see the additions to the church on the Eastern end. They completely detract from the style of the original building.
Apparently the extension is a new Community Centre and a long overdue needed upgraded to the church’s facilities but the problem is it just doesn’t work. This addition just doesn’t fit with the original building. I don’t understand why, when you have a stunning piece of architecture you would muck it up with what just looks like a stuck on afterthought.
Ok, enough whinging. Extension aside St Peters Church is actually a stunning old church and one that is filled with character. If you’ve ever driven to Glenelg you’ve probably driven right past it at one time or another. The fact it is located on the centre of a roundabout sets it apart from its surroundings.
The building itself is on the state National Trust register and if you’re into classic gothic churches, you’re sure to love this one. Go inside and you’ll see an amazing pipe organ and an impeccably decorated interior.
I love this old church but am disappointed with the new extension. While I’m sure the new facilities will be welcomed the Church appears to have lost some of its charm.