English Church

English Church (celebrated as St. John's Anglican Church and the historic CSI English Church of Tellicherry), situated right beside the oceanfront colonial ramparts of Thalassery Fort in Thalassery in Kerala, is one of Malabar's oldest, most scenic, and historically significant Victorian Anglican heritage sanctuaries.

Erected in 1869 through the benevolent philanthropic legacy of Edward Brennen (Master Attendant of Thalassery Port and legendary benefactor of Malabar education), this consecrated stone church was built using funds Brennen bequeathed to ensure Christian worship and free education for children across the Malabar coast.

It's the home of classic Victorian Gothic architecture featuring imported English stained glass windows depicting biblical apostles, hand carved polished timber pews, a historic pipe organ loft, the consecrated cemetery containing the final resting place of Edward Brennen and prominent colonial administrators, towering rain trees creating a tranquil shaded churchyard, and a peaceful ocean breeze atmosphere overlooking the Arabian Sea.

It represents a rich architectural and historical sanctuary where 19th century colonial heritage, timeless Gothic stone masonry, profound philanthropic benevolence, and Christian liturgical fellowship unite in Kannur district.

Located in the heritage fort precinct of Thalassery, it sits just 1 km from Thalassery Railway Station (TLY), 200 meters from Thalassery Fort, and 25 km from Kannur International Airport (CNN), easily accessible on foot, by auto rickshaw, or town bus.

The Philanthropic Legacy of Edward Brennen (1869 AD)

Edward Brennen, a shipwrecked British sailor who rose to become Master Attendant of Tellicherry, dedicated his life and entire personal wealth to the welfare of Thalassery's citizens.

Before his death in 1859, Brennen willed his wealth to establish the renowned Brennen College and St. John's Anglican Church, specifying that he be buried within the church cemetery.

Truth is, standing beside Brennen's quiet granite tomb under the spreading shade of centuries old rain trees evokes deep reverence for his lasting generosity.

Victorian Gothic Masonry & Stained Glass Art

Imported European Stained Glass: The church chancel is decorated with luminous multi colored stained glass panes imported from England in the late 1860s, casting colorful beams across the stone altar.

Teak Timber Beams & Belfry: The high vaulted ceiling rests on solid Malabar teak beams, housing a resonant brass bell that has tolled across the coastline for over 150 years.

Historic Colonial Cemetery & Peaceful Churchyard

The Historic Cemetery: Surrounding the church is an evocative colonial graveyard containing weathered epitaphs of British judges, civil magistrates, and military officers who served in Malabar province.

Sunday Services & Fellowship: Today, the church functions under the Church of South India (CSI), conducting weekly Sunday worship services in Malayalam and English.

After touring the English Church, step across the pathway to explore the massive stone bastions of Thalassery Fort, visit Overbury's Folly seaside promenade, or walk through the historic Gundert Bungalow.