Breedon on the Hill

The Priory Church, Breedon on the Hill, is probably the nearest of Simon Jenkins' 1000 Best Churches to my house so I decided it was finally time to make a visit. We managed to combine a visit with a short pre-Christmas walk which was just about right for the children. Breedon's origins are Saxons and whilst the most interesting parts of the building are on the inside there were a few interesting features outside also.

Jenkins always seems to give extra marks for tombs and a few were in evidence here. Sadly they made photographing arguably the most significant item in this church - a hugely overbearing box pew - rather difficult to photograph.

Personally, I'm not as interested in displays of such grandeur as I am in more quirky, interesting, carvings and Breedon does not disappoint on this either with Saxon carvings all round the church. The most significant of these is this one of Mary who is depicted as a teacher - something of a departure from the family line, but there were a number of others such as four legged beasts and repeating patterns.

Kings Lynn Minster

Steetley Chapel (All Saints)

Beautiful little 12th century chapel near Worksop. There's a nice write up of it here.

Lindisfarne Priory

We holidayed in Northumberland this year and so popped over to Holy Island (Lindisfarne) for the day. The photos were rather disappointing, but a great day was had by all, and I at least managed to get a semi-decent one of the famous rainbow arch as well as the above of the intricate carving on the gate.

 

Wellingborough (St. Mary)

Rothwell (Holy Trinity)

Sadly this one was locked when I popped by for a visit; a beautiful exterior however.

 

Grace Dieu Priory, nr Loughborough

Despite the name Grace Dieu Priory, near Osgathorpe in the Loughborough area was originally a nunnery. It's now on private land though access is permitted at visitor's own risk.

 

 

Lowick (St. Peter's)

Lowick gets four stars from Simon Jenkins. Somehow I only managed to get this rather poor shot of the exterior, which doesn't really capture the majesty of the church with its eight fluttering weathervanes. I did manage to get some nice photos of the inside though regret not getting more of the 13th century glass.