Churches and Cathedrals have been important to the history of the United Kingdom. Governments and churches have worked closely together for hundreds of years. It explains why there are so many of the most intriguing churches in the United Kingdom.
These days, they draw throngs of visitors from all over the world in addition to the UK. These amazing buildings are dispersed across Britain, showcasing the country’s rich architectural legacy.
We’re here today to tell you about the best cathedrals in Britain, emphasising both their architectural beauty and historical significance.
Let’s examine the top 7 churches and cathedrals in Britain that you just must see when there! To find out more about these well-known sites, continue reading:
Sir Christopher Wren, a well-known British architect, created the design for St. Paul’s Cathedral. It is regarded as one of London’s most recognisable monuments and is a great feat of architecture.
Here’s a fascinating statistic for you: for more than 1,400 years, people have been visiting this location for worship! However, the St. Paul’s that exists today? All of everything is attributable to Wren’s vision, which was realised between 1675 and 1710. Could you image the level of commitment required to construct anything similar in the past?
And let’s not forget about the dome, which is essentially the gem in the metropolitan skyline. Standing tall and proud, among the largest in the world, it ensures that everyone is aware of the location of St. Paul’s.
One of the Cathedral’s most appealing characteristics is its expansive underground crypt, which is home to some of the finest people in the country’s history, such as Admiral Lord Nelson, the Duke of Wellington, and Sir Christopher Wren, who designed the structure.
Pro Tip: For breathtaking views of downtown London, climb to the top of the dome while you’re at the Cathedral. It surpasses the London Eye in quality! Additionally, if you want to enjoy your trip without worrying about parking problems or your vehicle’s safety, London Minibus Hire is here for you.
Situated in the picturesque Somerset countryside lies Wells Cathedral. The Bishop of Bath and Wells resides there as his episcopal residence.
What distinguishes Wells Cathedral from the rest of the population, then? To begin with, it’s a bit of a trailblazer. Wells made the bold decision to go Gothic while most churches of the era were dominated by Norman design. How about shattering the mould?
Additionally, it retains its old-world beauty despite having stood tall since 1239. It has undergone a good deal of modifications throughout the years, yet the mediaeval charm hasn’t faded.
Wells Cathedral was built between 1175 and 1490 to replace a church that dates back to 705 AD. Despite its modest size, it has garnered great recognition, being called “the most poetic” and “unquestionably one of the most beautiful” English cathedrals.
Pro Tip: Enter through the “Penniless Porch” from the Cathedral green for the best view of the elaborate west-front facade of Wells Cathedral. Wells Cathedral’s exterior is twice as wide as it is high, embellished with 300 statues of saints and monarchs.
The formal name of this Anglican cathedral is the Cathedral of Saint Mary. It is deeply significant in British history and is a magnificent example of early English building. With a spire that reaches more than 400 feet, it is the tallest structure in the United Kingdom.
In addition, the Cathedral’s remarkable features include the largest cloister in Britain. It is the home of amazing artefacts like the best-preserved copy of the Magna Carta and the oldest clock in the world, dating back to circa 1386. Remarkably, the complete Cathedral was constructed in a mere 38 years.
The breathtaking splendour of this architectural wonder enthrals onlookers both inside and out. This cathedral, which is situated in England’s south, is a must-see location for any tour that takes in the wonders of British architecture.
Pro Tip: The 73 statues in the tiny niches of Salisbury Cathedral depict angels, Old Testament figures, apostles, martyrs, and philosophers. Before you go inside, pause to observe the entrance.
The tiny community of St. David’s, which is located on Wales’ western coast, is home to St. David’s Cathedral. You are treated to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding environment. In the eighth century, St. David’s was already well-known as a spiritual centre in Britain. During Viking assaults, even King Alfred of Wessex turned to the monastic community for support.
Let’s now discuss the building itself. Although construction began in 1181, it has certainly seen its share of hardships. This cathedral has seen it all, from earthquakes rocking things to the collapse of a central tower. Talk about a hard time—I won’t even begin to discuss Oliver Cromwell and his group. But hey, this place has a strong resilient spirit. Since the late 1700s, restoration work has been carried out with the goal of restoring the former splendour.
Pro Tip: Take in the Cathedral’s peaceful silence as soon as you walk in. Explore the shrine of St. David and admire the elaborate church ceilings. Visit the adjacent Bishops Palace ruins thereafter to picture its illustrious past or discover information about previous Bishops.
From the early 1300s until 1549, the Lincoln Cathedral stood as the tallest structure in the world. It’s among the best cathedrals because of its distinctiveness.
But Lincoln Cathedral’s distinctive architecture is what really sets it apart. The majority of cathedrals use this standard layout, which includes a long nave and a cross, similar to the cathedral at Canterbury. Not Lincoln, though. Nope, this building is a centuries-old fusion of Gothic and Norman architecture. Really, it’s unlike anywhere else in Europe.
Similar to other cathedrals, Lincoln Cathedral is home to significant historical relics, such as writings by Saint Bede and one of the four Magna Carta copies.
Pro Tip: Benefit from seeing Lincoln Castle, which is located across from the Cathedral. It’s a wonderful experience that provides the ideal viewpoint for taking breathtaking cathedral pictures.
Temple Church has undergone numerous historical transformations, making it one of London’s oldest and most exquisite churches in all of England. Built in the twelfth century.
It is surrounded by magnificent gardens, lovely courtyards, and meandering lanes in the tranquil Temple enclave. Reputable fathers who are well-known around the nation reside there.
The church welcomes guests with a lovely atmosphere and comfortable inside and outdoor seating so they may unwind and enjoy their time. The chance to converse with the fathers is another experience for tourists. In the United Kingdom, Pentecostal churches are well-known.
Pro Tip: Take in the intricate grotesques that are painted on the nave wall of Temple Church when you visit. When they are first vividly coloured, they are an amazing sight that is well worth seeing.
During the early Norman invasions of south Wales in the late 11th century, St. Mary’s Church was first built. It is noteworthy for being the final resting place of Dic Penderyn, a pioneering champion of workers’ rights.
Now, fast-forward to 1858, when the church undergoes a significant makeover. The people at Prichard and Seddon choose to fully renovate it, turning it into a magnificent illustration of Gothic Revival building design. The problem is that, in order to complete the renovation, many of the antique mediaeval accents have to disappear. You see, there was a small trade-off involved.
You’ll see what I mean if you step outdoors. The outside features exquisite geometric window traceries combined with a magnificent Gothic architecture. To put the final touches on the windows, they even utilised bathstone. Thanks in large part to the late Victorian Gothic Revival renovation, it is today a Grade II listed beauty.
The location of Aberavon Castle, which was once close to the church, is now taken by contemporary structures. A piscina from the 12th century that was not originally a component of the church is located inside the chancel. In 1927, it was relocated here from a chapel nearby.
Pro Tip: Keep in mind the area’s historical significance in the witch trials while you explore it. The community has many allusions to this past, even though the church doesn’t make direct allusions to it. There is a statue of one of the witches, Alice Nutter, in the neighbouring town of Roughlee, and local stores provide books and items with witch themes.
Churches and cathedrals in Britain provide an enlightening glimpse into the nation’s rich architectural history. Every location, from the recognisable St. Paul’s Cathedral to the tranquil St. David’s Cathedral, has a unique charm and past that are waiting to be found and savoured.
These architectural wonders, which offer a stunning trip through Britain’s spiritual and cultural landscape, inspire visitors to connect with centuries of tradition and workmanship, whether they are drawn to small chapels or lofty spires.
