“A society wedding at St George’s Hanover Square. How romantic” That’s what many people think. This beautiful church has witnessed countless such unions. St George’s Hanover Square is more than just a pretty face though. It’s a significant piece of London’s history. Built between 1721 and 1725 it’s one of the Fifty New Churches. These churches were built all around London as part of a project. General William Steuart donated the land for St George’s. John James designed the church. Its elegant portico supported by six Corinthian columns is instantly recognizable. The tower rises from the roof just behind the portico.
The interior is equally impressive. It’s divided into a nave and aisles by piers. These piers transform into Corinthian columns reaching up to the ceiling. The nave has a barrel vault. The aisles have transverse barrel vaults. St George’s wasn’t always a fashionable spot. It initially lacked a churchyard. Its first burial ground was near a workhouse. A larger burial ground was later consecrated at Bayswater. Famous figures like author Ann Radcliffe and the Revd Laurence Sterne are buried there. Many other people are also buried there. The Bayswater burial ground was later used to grow vegetables during the First World War. Later the remains of 11500 people were moved.
Music lovers will be interested to learn Handel worshipped here. He may have even played the organ. While some claim he composed Messiah at St George’s it is more likely he did so at his home nearby. St George’s maintains a strong musical tradition. It houses a professional choir and hosts classical music concerts. The church underwent major restoration. A five million pound Restoration Fund was launched. The church has a significant history of weddings. High society weddings were once very common. They have gradually declined in recent times. Many famous people were married here. Theodore Roosevelt even got married here.
St George’s Hanover Square is more than just a pretty church. It’s a significant historical site. It’s a testament to the architectural style of its time. It continues to be a vital part of London life. The history of this place is just as lovely as its appearance. It is a place where history music and faith intertwine. Its story continues to unfold with each new wedding each concert and each service.