Your Trusted Estate Agent In Goring

Hidden away in Goring is the English Martyrs’ Catholic Church, home to an incredible 100-foot hand-painted ceiling inspired by the Sistine Chapel. Created by local parishioner Gary Bevans between 1987 and 1993, following a pilgrimage to Rome, this stunning replica of Michelangelo’s masterpiece is mathematically perfect in its proportions and is an awe-inspiring tribute to Renaissance art – it is well worth a visit.

Long before he hit the global stage, punk legend Billy Idol – real name William Broad – spent part of his early life in Goring. Local stories claim his iconic stage name came from a teacher who once branded him “idle” at school.

Goring Beach has its own slice of rock history. It’s said to have inspired parts of Quadrophenia, the legendary album by Pete Townshend of The Who – adding a coastal soundtrack to British music heritage.

Once a bustling centre for fishing and farming, Goring had a surprise economic boost in 1823 when an oyster bed was discovered just offshore. Fishermen, already skilled at catching herring and mackerel quickly adapted to the new delicacy.

The “by-Sea” part was added to distinguish it from Goring-on-Thames in South Oxfordshire. It’s a small change, but one that highlights the village’s coastal charm and gives it a name as distinctive as the place itself.