There are many beautiful churches in England, each with its own unique history and architecture. Here are just a few of the most stunning:
- Salisbury Cathedral – This Gothic cathedral is one of the largest in England and is home to the tallest spire in the country. It’s also famous for its “best preserved” original copy of the Magna Carta.
- Westminster Abbey – A royal church since 1066, Westminster Abbey has been the site of numerous coronations and royal weddings (including that of Prince William and Kate Middleton). It’s also where you’ll find the tomb of Isaac Newton.
- Canterbury Cathedral – As the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, this cathedral has been an important site for the Anglican church since the 6th century. It’s famous for its beautiful Gothic architecture and for being the place where Thomas Becket was murdered in 1170.
- St. Paul’s Cathedral – One of London’s most iconic landmarks, St. Paul’s Cathedral was designed by Sir Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of London in 1666. It’s known for its gigantic dome, which dominates the city skyline.
- York Minster – This magnificent Gothic cathedral is one of the largest in Northern Europe and has been described as “a miracle of human craftsmanship.” It’s home to an incredible collection of stained glass windows, many of which date back hundreds of years.
- Durham Cathedral – Situated in the pretty city of Durham, this cathedral is one of the most visited tourist attractions in England. It’s known for its Romanesque architecture and for its stunning setting atop a hill overlooking the River Wear.
- Liverpool Cathedral – The largest cathedral in Britain, Liverpool Cathedral is an awe-inspiring sight with its twin towers and vast interior space. It also has the world’s highest and heaviest peal of bells, which weigh a staggering 32 tons!
- Ely Cathedral – Set among the flat fens of Cambridgeshire, Ely Cathedral is a beautiful example of Norman architecture. Its octagonal lantern tower is one of its most distinctive features and can be seen for miles around.
- Chichester Cathedral – This striking cathedral, with its blue-and-white striped exterior, is one of the most distinctive in England. It’s located in the city of Chichester in West Sussex and has a beautiful Gothic interior.
- Wells Cathedral – One of the smallest cities in England, Wells is home to a beautiful cathedral that dates back to the 12th century. It’s known for its many ornate carvings and statues, as well as its unique “scissors” arches.
- Gloucester Cathedral – This imposing cathedral, located in the city of Gloucester, has been a place of Christian worship for over 1,300 years. It’s famous for its cloisters, which were used as a filming location in the Harry Potter movies.
- Ripon Cathedral – One of the oldest cathedrals in England, Ripon Cathedral dates back to the 7th century. It’s located in the picturesque town of Ripon in North Yorkshire and is known for its beautiful 13th-century clock tower.
- Hereford Cathedral – Another of England’s great Norman cathedrals, Hereford Cathedral is best known for its Mappa Mundi – a medieval map of the world that dates back to the 13th century. It’s located in the city of Hereford in the West Midlands.