Nationwide Church Tourism Week returns!

Church Tourism Week, an annual celebration of heritage and historic churches, will take place nationwide for the third year running between 20th and 29th July.

The week-long programme of events and activities highlights the heritage of the UK's exceptional ancient churches and chapels, showcasing the fascinating stories, art and experiences they offer and inviting people to explore our nation’s rich history in new ways.

There are events in every corner of the UK, from music concerts and theatre to Champing™ adventures, family clubbing sessions, heritage trails, hands-on craft and conservation activities, tower climbs and art exhibitions.

The celebration is a spear-headed by U.K. heritage charities The Churches Conservation Trust, Scottish Redundant Churches Trust, Friends of Friendless Churches and Caring for God's Acre.

Peter Aiers, CEO of The Churches Conservation Trust, which co-ordinates the week, says: 

“Churches are often the oldest and grandest buildings in our communities, but more than that they tell the stories of those communities, the people that lived within them and the last thousand years of our country’s history in a way no other buildings can.

“The Churches Conservation Trust is delighted to be working with partners and peers across the heritage sector to shine a light on these extraordinary buildings in our midst and to encourage people to enjoy them in different ways.”

Heritage charities and attractions across the UK are taking part in the celebration, with over 30 participating sites nationwide. 

CCT cares for 353 churches across England. Chances to take part locally as part of Church Tourism Week include:

• Tap your toes at Bromfest in Little Bromley, Essex, on 29th July.

• Stay overnight in a church – and only pay £1 for children to stay at special Champing™ (church camping) churches. Short breaks are available at 21 sites across England and Scotland.

• View a pop-up photography exhibition at All Saints’ Church, Vange on 21st July, featuring images from the archive of Basildon Heritage.

To find out more about this event and for the full events programme visit:

www.visitchurches.org.uk/ChurchTourismWeek