Christ Church Warleigh, Dickoya - Church of Ceylon — Attraction in Central Province

Christ Church Warleigh, located in the scenic hill town of Dickoya in Sri Lanka’s Central Province, is one of the most iconic remnants of British colonial heritage in the region. Established in 1878, this Anglican church was built by British planters during the height of the Ceylon tea industry. Nestled beside the Castlereagh Reservoir, the church offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and tea estates, enhancing its tranquil and spiritual ambiance.

Historical Significance: • Colonial Origins: The church was built primarily to serve the spiritual needs of British tea planters who had settled in the hill country. Its name “Warleigh” is believed to be derived from Warleigh Manor in Somerset, England, reflecting the influence of the colonial homeland. • Architectural Style: Christ Church Warleigh showcases traditional British Gothic architecture, with stone walls, arched windows, and a wooden interior. It is a fine example of 19th-century ecclesiastical construction in Sri Lanka. • Cemetery and Memorials: The adjoining graveyard is of particular interest, containing the tombstones of British settlers, including some who played a key role in developing the tea industry. These inscriptions provide valuable insight into colonial life and the hardships faced by early planters.

Cultural and Religious Role: • Community Center: During colonial times, the church functioned not just as a religious sanctuary, but also as a community hub for British expatriates. • Continued Services: Today, it remains an active place of worship and is part of the Church of Ceylon. Regular services are held, attracting both locals and tourists.

Tourism and Preservation: • Christ Church Warleigh is now a popular tourist attraction in the Nuwara Eliya district. It offers visitors a glimpse into the colonial past amidst breathtaking natural scenery. • The church has been preserved with care, and while it retains its original charm, it has also benefited from periodic maintenance by the local...

An old methodist church. With a cemetry where British plantars are buried. Antique pipe organ & stained glass window well preserved.

Christ Church Warleigh is an Anglican church in Sri Lanka built during the 18th century by the British. It is administered by the Church of Ceylon.The church is regarded as one of the most prominent and oldest Anglican churches in Sri Lanka and is a tourist destination. It is in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, in Dickoya, near the Nuwara Eliya District along the Hatton-Norwood road through the Warleigh Division. The church borders tea estates and the Castlereagh Reservoir. Christ Church was built by the William Scott, the manager of the Governor's Mansion, in 1878, when the country was a British colony. A bible printed in 1860s was presented to the church in July 1879 by Rev. Charles Hill, the rector of Warboys Parish, and is still preserved in the church.3 The first British colonial Inspector General of the Ceylon Police, Sir George William Robert Campbell who came to Ceylon in 1866 is believed to be buried in the churchyard. The church was built in typical old British church architecture. The walls of the church include granite stones. The church interior has wooden furniture seats, an ancient pipe organ (piano), an armchair, and wooden pulpit along with a 140 year old Bible.

19th century stained glass windows, which depict the paintings of Jesus Christ, were originally brought from England. A baptismal font made of porcelain is adorned with floral designs. The church floor is laid out with imported floral tiles from England.

A cemetery with tombstones of English colonial tea planters is next...

This Anglican church built during the colonial era has been preserved and well maintained. Originally used by the tea planters and their families. The little graveyard is filled with tombstones of the community. The first British colonial Inspector General of the Ceylon Police, Sir George William Robert Campbell is believed to be buried here.

The highlights are - the beautiful stained glass windows (depicting the highlights of the life of Jesus Christ), a century old pipe organ and the Bible, designer floor tiles, all brought down from the UK. Most of the furniture and fittings are also original. The care taker Brian was helpful and knowledgeable of the historical importance and details of the place. The old pipe organ is currently defunct pending some essential repairs, but they are still searching for a person/company to do the repairs. A vintage Yamaha wind organ is being used temporarily. The efforts by the Church of Ceylon, the vicar and the management to maintain the church in this excellent condition is commendable.

Location, overseeing the Castlereigh Reservoir, is perfect. A place you mustn't miss if you are in/passing the area. A full walkthrough will take approx. 30 minutes and ideal times of visit are mornings or evenings. Be prepared with some currency for a donation, which isn't mandatory...