St Julian’s Chapel, Tenby, Wales 1977

Perched at the edge of the picturesque harbour in the historic town of Tenby, St Julian’s Chapel is a humble yet evocative structure with deep ties to the town’s maritime past. Dedicated to St Julian the Hospitaller, the patron saint of travellers and boatmen, the chapel has served as a spiritual haven for seafarers for generations.

Originally constructed in 1874, the current building replaced an earlier chapel of the same name that had long stood nearby. The new chapel was financed largely by public subscription, with contributions from local residents and the wider seafaring community who felt the need for a dedicated place of worship close to the harbour.

Modest in scale and design, the chapel’s simple exterior belies its importance. It was specifically built to serve fishermen and sailors, many of whom would have set out on dangerous journeys or worked along the Welsh coast. In an era when sea travel was perilous, having a chapel near the harbour provided both practical and emotional comfort – a place to pray for safe passage or to give thanks for returning home.

St Julian’s Chapel is closely associated with St Mary’s Church in Tenby, and though small, it has remained in active use for services, particularly during the summer months. Its whitewashed stone walls, exposed timber ceiling, and intimate interior have made it a beloved spot for reflection, drawing both locals and visitors.

Over the years, the chapel has witnessed the changing fortunes of Tenby’s harbour—from the heyday of fishing and trade to its transformation into a popular destination for tourists and holidaymakers. Despite these changes, the chapel has retained its peaceful charm and continues to stand as a symbol of Tenby’s enduring relationship with the sea.