The Churches Conservation Trust (CCT) charity was established in 1969 to save churches of historic or architectural significance from becoming derelict after they had stopped regular worship. They all belonged to the Church of England but due to a decline in congregation numbers and the rising cost of looking them they have been vested into the care of the CCT.
Herefordshire is lucky enough to have 9 CCT churches that you can explore free-of-charge. They remain consecrated and are available to hire out for events too. You can even book an overnight stay in Holme Lacy church courtesy of the Champing scheme.
St Cuthbert, Holme Lacy HR2 6LX
Filled with beautiful monuments many for those who lived at Holme Lacy House. There is also an interesting archive of local history information.
St John the Baptist, Llanrothal NP25 5QL
A remote and atmospheric church on the River Monnow which divides England from Wales, it is a testament to its early Christian Celtic roots.
St Michael, Michaelchurch HR2 8LD
Filled with wall paintings, this ancient church has stood here for at least a thousand years. It even houses the remains of a Roman altar.
The Church, Moreton Jeffries HR1 3QY
A church with no dedication, this tranquil little church set in a tiny village, has Jacobean wood furniture and splendid tiles in the chancel.
St Bartholomew, Richard’s Castle SY8 4ET
Perched high on a hill overlooking Shropshire, with the motte and bailey castle next door; this huge Templar church with a separate bell tower appears to have stood still in time.
St Cosmas and St Damain, Stretford HR6 9DG
A rare dedication to the saints of physicians, this quiet church has a double nave and a shrine to these saintly brothers.
St Mary, Wormsley HR4 8LY
A tiny stone chapel with Norman origins nestles in the hills, surrounded by sheep. Only a 5-minute walk from the golf club car park.
The Chapel, Yatton HR1 4TD
Once used as a barn, this simple chapel stands in a farmyard. It has a beautifully carved doorway and can only be reached by walkers.
St Mary the Virgin, Yazor HR4 7BA
With its striking Victorian spire, it’s a hard church to miss. Inside, the chancel is beautifully painted pink with a lion design and a gold leaf decalogue.
Most churches are open 10am to 4pm.
For more information head over to the Visit Churches website.
