Places of Worship

Our towns and countryside are unimaginable without the spires and towers of churches, chapels and cathedrals soaring above them. Places of worship are a priceless part of England's built heritage.

But this legacy poses enormous challenges. How is it to be kept in good order? How do we weigh the needs of modern congregations against those of conservation? How can we protect church buildings that are no longer needed for worship?

These pages explain how English Heritage gets involved with all denominations and faiths to help protect their buildings.

Controlling Change in Churches

Which places of worship are listed? Why make changes? How are changes controlled? How is English Heritage involved? What about church land? When is planning permission needed?

Redundant Churches

What are the problems of re-use? How are churches made redundant? Who looks after them? Can new uses be found?

Cathedrals

Who controls changes to cathedrals? How are repairs funded?

Repair Grants for Places of Worship in England 2005 to 2007

English Heritage and the Heritage Lottery Fund jointly fund repairs to listed places of worship in use for regular public worship. Detailed guidance notes which explain how you can apply for a grant can be downloaded below as pdf files. Please note that the Scheme operates on an annual batch basis, with closing dates for applications in June for grade I and grade II* buildings and September for grade II buildings.

More information on: Repair Grants for Places of Worship.