Breedon on the Hill Priory Church
Discover Britain's largest collection of Anglo-Saxon sculptures and enjoy breathtaking countryside views at this historic priory church.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Enjoy peaceful views
Breedon on the Hill Priory Church
Best Time
Enjoy peaceful views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Britain's largest collection of Anglo-Saxon sculptures and enjoy breathtaking countryside views at this historic priory church.
"Absolutely fascinating history and stunning views, a must-visit for any history buff!"
Free Parking Available
Parking is free and convenient, making your visit hassle-free. :car:
Explore the Churchyard
Don't miss the beautiful views and tranquil atmosphere of the churchyard. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Anglo-Saxon Sculptures
Marvel at the largest and finest collection of Anglo-Saxon sculptures found anywhere in a church.
Unique Family Pews
Admire the distinctive Renaissance-era family pews, a fascinating architectural and historical feature.
Panoramic Countryside Views
Soak in the stunning, far-reaching vistas from the peaceful churchyard, offering a serene escape.
Marble Sculptures
Be intrigued by the detailed and unusual marble sculptures, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Uncover Anglo-Saxon Treasures
Breathtaking Views & Peaceful Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Parking Available
Parking is free and convenient, making your visit hassle-free. :car:
Explore the Churchyard
Don't miss the beautiful views and tranquil atmosphere of the churchyard. :camerawithflash:
Discover Local History
Chat with helpful volunteers to learn fascinating stories, like the Breedon Angel. :bustsinsilhouette:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll want to explore the church and its grounds, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Parking Available
Parking is free and convenient, making your visit hassle-free. :car:
Explore the Churchyard
Don't miss the beautiful views and tranquil atmosphere of the churchyard. :camerawithflash:
Discover Local History
Chat with helpful volunteers to learn fascinating stories, like the Breedon Angel. :bustsinsilhouette:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll want to explore the church and its grounds, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Breedon on the Hill Priory Church for its exceptional collection of Anglo-Saxon sculptures and its historically rich interior, including unique family pews and marble carvings. The stunning panoramic views from the churchyard are also a major highlight, offering a peaceful and beautiful setting. While the narrow access lane can be a minor challenge, the overall experience is described as fascinating, worthwhile, and deeply rewarding for history and art enthusiasts.
"Absolutely loved it!! The outside is gorgeous, with views all around but the inside takes it to the next level. Fascinating. Unusual pews. Gorgeous stained glass. A skeleton made from marble?"
Nikki Parker
"Had a really lovely visit here. Loved all the history. Especially the story of the breedon angel. Absolutely fascinating. We will definitely go again."
Jacquie Paget
"One of the 1000. What a stunning piece or architecture, history and spirituality. Intrigued by it from afar this was worth the detour off the M42. Gorgeous views but the churches history is well preserved and told inside. Glorious on any day, well done congregation for maintaining it in this way."
Peter Robinson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is accessible via a narrow lane, so drive carefully. Free parking is available on-site. It's a worthwhile detour off the M42 for those seeking historical sites.
Information on direct public transport is limited, so driving is generally recommended. Check local bus routes for Breedon on the Hill village.
The church is a convenient detour from the M42 motorway, making it an accessible stop for travelers in the region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the church is free, and it is open seven days a week, making it easy to plan your visit.
The Priory Church of St Mary and St Hardulph is open seven days a week, allowing for flexible visiting times.
No, there is no admission fee to enter the church. Donations are welcome to help with its upkeep.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It boasts the largest collection of Anglo-Saxon sculptures in Britain, alongside unique family pews and stunning marble carvings. The panoramic views are also a major draw.
Inside, you'll find remarkable Anglo-Saxon sculptures, intricate marble carvings, and notable family pews from the Renaissance era.
Yes, there is a public toilet located inside the church for visitors' convenience.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always respectful to check for any specific signage or ask a church official.
While the church is historic, efforts are made to accommodate visitors. Access to certain areas might be limited due to its age and structure.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food and drink options are available in the nearby village of Breedon on the Hill.
No, there are no dining facilities within the church itself. You'll need to visit the nearby village for refreshments.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning Anglo-Saxon sculptures, the unique family pews, and the breathtaking panoramic views from the churchyard.
Absolutely! The elevated position offers expansive views of the Leicestershire countryside, perfect for landscape shots.
Yes, the intricate details of the marble sculptures are highly photogenic and a key highlight for visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the church itself is a place of quiet reflection, the peaceful churchyard offers space for children to move around and enjoy the expansive views. Public footpaths nearby also provide opportunities for short, family-friendly walks. Remember to keep voices low inside the church out of respect for worshippers and the historical significance of the site.
🏛️ History Buffs & Art Enthusiasts
Take your time to explore the details of each carving and appreciate the historical context. Engaging with the helpful church volunteers can provide deeper understanding and fascinating anecdotes, such as the legend of the Breedon Angel. The church's continuous history from the 7th century makes it a profoundly significant location.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Marvel of Anglo-Saxon Artistry
Among the most captivating pieces are the Breedon Angel and various tomb effigies. The intricate details and surviving artistry on these stone fragments are a testament to the skill of medieval craftsmen. Many visitors find the stories behind these sculptures, often shared by knowledgeable volunteers, to be a highlight of their visit.
Beyond the sculptures, the church itself is a significant historical site, with roots stretching back to the 7th century. The Priory Church of St Mary and St Hardulph showcases a blend of architectural styles and historical periods, making it a fascinating place for anyone interested in history and art.
Panoramic Vistas and Tranquil Surroundings
Visitors often describe the atmosphere in the churchyard as peaceful and tranquil. It's an ideal place to sit, relax, and soak in the natural beauty after exploring the church's interior. Public footpaths also lead from the church, offering opportunities for pleasant walks in the scenic rural setting.
These views are particularly striking on clear days, offering a beautiful contrast to the ancient stone of the priory. It's a reminder that the site has been a place of significance and beauty for centuries, attracting people for both spiritual and aesthetic reasons.
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