Inspiration for Daphne du Maurier: Altarnun Church

St Nonna’s Church in Altarnun is famous for its remarkable pew ends.

The 79 carvings are attributed to a Robert Daye and are thought to date to 1510-1530. It’s rare for the name of the craftsman, responsible for this type of work, to be known from this period.

The carvings represent musicians, heraldic symbols, saints and other Tudor subjects offering clues to local life at the time.

The church is also famous for its association with the novel ‘Jamaica Inn’ by Daphne du Maurier.

The sinister Vicar of Altarnun, Francis Davey, is a key character in this chilling tale of smuggling, wrecking, ghosts and intrigue.

The perfect read for a dark January evening!