The UK’s historic churches are beautiful additions to so many cities, towns and villages. Every year, the changing seasons paint them in new light, and winter is no exception.
After freezing temperatures hit the UK in early January, we asked you to submit your best photos of churches in the snow, to help us celebrate these brilliant buildings.
Here are the winners, who will each receive a bundle of books as their prize.
3rd place: Dummer All Saints Church, Hampshire, by Michael Hill-King
Featuring a bright sky behind the profile of this 12th century church, Michael’s picture captures a majestic moment during the cold winter.
The church is a small Grade I Listed building that has been restored many times since it was first built.
On the porch doorways and windows, you can find lots of medieval graffiti, including abstract patterns and pictures of animals.
Further inside there are a range of notable fittings. The pulpit dates from 1380, making it one of the oldest in the UK. The rare 15th century rood canopy and stained glass by accomplished Victorian designer CE Kempe are also highlights to see.
2nd place: Cranfield St Peter & St Paul’s Church, Bedfordshire, by Trevor Dimmock
Trevor’s aerial shot of the Cranfield St Peter & St Paul’s shows the church’s presence within its surrounding landscape and makes for a picturesque scene.
The snow-covered roofs that you can see date back to the 15th century, when much of the current building was constructed. As with many medieval churches, it was restored in the 19th century and new features added, including pews with elaborate poppy head carvings at each end.
Outside in the graveyard, you’ll find the grave of Captain William Swabey who was wounded at the Battle of Vittoria but went on to fight at the Battle of Waterloo before emigrating to Prince Edward Island.
Find out more about Cranfield St Peter & St Paul’s
1st place: Kidderminster St George’s Church, Worcestershire, by Laura Spiteri
There is so much to love about this picture of St George’s church. One of the most striking features is the elegant tower, which can be seen for miles around and is a defining feature of the local area.
Built in 1824, St George’s is a Commissioner’s Church, designed by Francis Goodwin in the Perpendicular Gothic style.
Commissioners Churches, also known as Waterloo Churches, date from the early 19th century, when an 1818 Act of Parliament granted funding for the building of new Anglican churches in England and Wales.
After a fire destroyed the interior in 1922, a restoration was carried out by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, a celebrated architect who designed Liverpool Cathedral, Battersea Power Station and the red telephone box.
Churches are beautiful – all year round
No matter the weather, churches look at home in the UK’s landscapes all year round. Whether illuminated by the summer sun or a haven in freezing temperatures, they are local landmarks for all to enjoy.
Your photos show how snow can enhance our amazing church buildings, creating magical scenes for all to enjoy.
Congratulations to our winners and thank you to everyone who entered.
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