St Mary’s Church was not Sarah’s only creation. The Chapel of Rest, which stands beside Wreay cemetery, has its own fascinating story. Built in 1835 as a trial run for St Mary’s, Sarah created an ‘exact copy’ of St Piran’s Oratory near Perranporth in Cornwall. The ruins of the ancient chapel of St Piran had just been uncovered from the drifting sands. The discovery was reported nationally and appealed to Sarah’s antiquarian interest.

I saw in the neighbourhood some most remarkable architectural works by a former Miss Losh. She must have been really a great genius and should be better known – Dante Gabriel Rossetti writing to his mother August 1869

For many years the Chapel of Rest had no purpose and needed repair and maintenance. Thanks to a Heritage Lottery Fund Grant the building has been transformed into the Sarah Losh Heritage Centre, a multi-use space; a visitor centre telling the fascinating story of Wreay, St Mary’s and the Losh family; a small meeting room for local and regional groups; an alternative classroom; a creative studio for art, photography or literary groups; an exhibition space; a space for simple services.

The Centre, which is suitable for all ages, is open every day from 10.00am to 4.00pm and is free to visit. It is located just to the north of St Mary’s Church on the Carlisle road and car parking is available. The postcode of the Sarah Losh Heritage Centre is CA4 0RJ. The toilet and kitchen facility at the Centre are only available to prearranged guided groups or during special events. The Centre is fully wheelchair accessible.

There are two guided walks – the Sarah Losh Heritage Walk and the Wreay Woods Walk – available at the Centre and St Mary’s or download copies here.

Click here to download the Sarah Losh Heritage Trail Guide (485kB PDF)

Click here to download the Wreay Woods Walk Guide (518kB PDF)

If you are interested in renting the Centre for workshops, meetings, exhibitions etc then please email: raymondwhittaker53@gmail.com

Visit to learn about the inspiration behind Sarah’s creations and leave being inspired!