Holy Trinity
Penn, Buckinghamshire
John Betjeman, observed that ‘within and without, the church has the charm of old watercolours’.
The mixture of local building materials is part of the charm of this church. The south aisle has a mixture of flint and brick, but the wide south porch is timber framed.
Inside, the church feels very ancient; experts argue whether it is Saxon or Norman.
The simple semicircular arches have a primitive appearance and the extensive medieval wall paintings that have been uncovered give the interior an 'early Christian' feeling. The step down into the chancel and the old tiled floors contribute further to the atmosphere.
If this wasn't already good, the real treat is what the church has done to present its story, and imaginatively recreate the paintings a la Harry Potter. You have to see it for yourself. New visitor installation, introductory film, digital guide and digital recreations of the paintings.