Since Christianity established itself among the English in the 7th century, we have been building beautiful churches in every conceivable style and in every part of the country. While the grand cathedrals that occupy central positions in cities are among the most spectacular in the world, we're particularly drawn to the quieter charm of the small country churches that were built to serve rural communities. When the architecture of a lovely church combines with the beauty of a natural landscape, then they're completely irresistible. Here are 11 of the most picturesque we know of in Britain, from waterside churches to hilltop chapels.
St Michael de Rupe, Brentor, Devon
This church surely has one of the most breathtaking locations in all of Britain, perched on top of Brent Tor on the western edge of Dartmoor. St Michael's is the parish church of the village of Brentor, which lies at the bottom of the hill, and it is the highest working church in England. Founded in the 12th century by the local landowner Robert Giffard, most of the architecture dates to the 13th and 14th centuries. You can visit the church for Evensong every week from Easter to Michaelmas, and there are occasional services throughout the rest of the year.
St Botolph's, Iken, Suffolk
On a beautiful site overlooking the marshy River Alde, the church of St Botolph at Iken is one of Suffolk's most lovely and characteristic sites. There has been a church here since the arrival of St Botolph in the 7th century, which makes this one of the oldest Christian sites in England. The current building has a Norman nave, a 15th-century tower, and a 19th-century chancel, and is utterly peaceful within. The church holds a Holy Communion service once a month on the second Sunday.
St Nicholas' Church, Salthouse, Norfolk
A seaside church is hard to resist, and this rather grand church has a marvellous view out over the North Sea. The church was built in the 15th century when the area was a wealthy and bustling port, but now it is rather lonely and quiet. The interior has some beautiful relics, including the original stone font and a painted rood screen.
St Just in Roseland, Truro, Cornwall
Nestled at the edge of a tidal creek, the 13th-century church of St Just in Roseland has the unusual addition of a subtropical garden, which was described by the poet John Betjeman as ‘to many people the most beautiful churchyard on earth’. It was a rector of the 19th century who introduced the plants and flowers that make this such a unique spot to visit.
St Cwyfan’s Church-in-the-Sea, Anglesey
Known as ‘the church in the sea’ and only accessible during low tide, this recognisable building on the tiny island of Cribinau dates back to the 12th century. The island was originally connected to the mainland of Anglesey, but the land eroded to the point where graves in the churchyard began to fall into the sea, and the church was abandoned. A local architect raised money at the end the 19th century to have a sea wall built to save the church, and it is back in service now for special occasions such as weddings and baptisms.
St Martin, Fifield Bavant, Wiltshire
With a tiny population of just 20 people, the village of Fifield Bavant is one of the smallest in England. Its medieval church is rather diminutive to match, though this only adds to its charm. Dating to the 13th century, it has many of its original features intact, including the stone and flint checkerboard walls, and a Normal font that even pre-dates the building. You can attend Evensong here on the third Sunday of each month.
St Catherine’s Oratory, Isle of Wight
Known to locals as the ‘pepperpot’, this unusual building was set up in 1328 by a local landowner who was seeking penance for stealing casks of wine from a shipwreck. Faced with the threat of excommunication, Walter de Godeton set up this lighthouse on the clifftop along with an oratory where masses could be said for sailors who died at sea. The lighthouse is all that remains, a striking landmark visible for miles around.
St Mary and St Finnan, Glenfinnan
With views across the waters of Loch Shiel to the dramatic mountains that rise to the south-east, St Mary and St Finnan is surely the most beautifully located church in Scotland. It is the newest church in this story, a Catholic foundation of the mid-19th century. Designed by the renowned Victorian architect Augustus Pugin in imposing Gothic Revival style, it is surprisingly light and airy within.
St Andrew's, Alfriston, Sussex
With its lush, green, rolling landscapes, Sussex is one of the most charming of all English counties, and is well supplied with scenic churches. Located next to the meandering Cuckmere River, it was founded in the 14th century, with its grand scale lending it the nickname ‘the Cathedral of the Downs’. Its interior has a number of fascinating features, including a bell tower in the middle of the church.
St Mary the Virgin, Whitby, North Yorkshire
Perched on the East Cliff above the seaside town of Whitby, this church is most famous as a major setting in Bram Stoker's Dracula. Founded in the 12th century, the building has been added to and extended ever since, and the unexpectedly decorative interior is a relic of the 18th century. Next to the church is the ruin of the great Benedictine monastery of Whitby Abbey. It's a spectacular place to visit, but be prepared for the legions of Dracula fans.
All Saints Selworthy, Exmoor, Devon
Built onto the side of a hill in the rolling landscape of Exmoor National Park, the church at Selworthy is a deeply elegant and graceful place to visit. Built in the 15th century, it is still periodically coated in the mixture of lime and tallow that was once common in churches of the area. Inside, you'll find a fascinating 15th-century clock and a beautiful 18th-century wooden gallery. Still a well-used parish church, you can attend services here every Sunday.
