Annunciation

The Annunciation Church stands proudly on Bryanston Street. It’s a magnificent building. It replaced a former chapel of ease called the Quebec Chapel. This chapel was named after the near street. Whether it was named after the General Wolfe who captured Quebec in 1759, or the defeat of the Americans in 1775 when they tried to gain Quebec is unclear. The original chapel was square, ugly, and without any style. It’s believed it was made from a riding school of the Portman Barracks nearby. However, there’s no evidence for that claim. The chapel was redecorated in the middle of the 19th century. It was then purchased by the congregation in 1894. They had the ambitious goal to build a new church and take over the entire city block. The architect of the new church was Walter Tapper. He chose an impressive Edwardian Gothic style. The interior is spacious, thanks to high windows and vaulting. It’s described as a fragment of a major medieval church. It has many fine furnishings. The high altar reredos was made by Jack Bewsey. He was also the creator for the stained glass. The church was dedicated in 1914 by the Bishop of London. The dedication happened just before the war. The Annunciation Church has always been closely associated with the Anglo-Catholic movement. The church is well worth a visit. It’s an impressive example of Edwardian Gothic style. Be sure to look out for the fine furnishings. The Annunciation is a testament to the creativity and brilliance of Walter Tapper.