The building was enlarged in the 12th and 13th centuries, when the chancel and side aisles were added.

A lightning strike in 1439 resulted in the church being rebuilt, with the tower being raised to its present height.

[3] As Ramsgate grew in size, the town was granted its own church.

[4] St Laurence has a large churchyard covering three and a half acres.

[2][5] It also contains the mausoleum of the family of one of Queen Victoria's cousins, Augusta d'Este, later Baroness Truro.