Bristol is unique among cities in the UK in owning this civic chapel, which has been used as the Corporation's official place of worship since 1722. It was originally the chapel of the hospital of the Gaunts and was known as St Mark's Church. It was founded in 1220 and was granted by King Henry VIII to the Corporation in 1541 (as part of the infamous Dissolution of the Monasteries) for the sum of GBP1000. No other hospital buildings remain. It's particularly noted for its fine, 16th-century stained-glass windows and an intricately fan-vaulted roof, as well as for a wealth of monuments that chronicle the city's history. But best of all, it's a wonderfully peaceful oasis amidst the bustle and hurry of the city center just outside. Its a place to sit quietly and soak up the atmosphere.
Installed as the abbey church of St Augustine in 1140, the Bristol Cathedral was one of the cornerstones of the newly-formed Diocese of Bristol in 1542. With a peak length of 91.44 meters (300 feet), the cathedral's ornate twin towers elegantly soar over the hustle and bustle of Bristol's Park Street. The structure's architectural complexity is further enhanced by its splendid Gothic-Revival nave and an elaborately decorated rose window that sits atop the church's arched entrance. Its Norman chapter house is captivating, to say the least, and is widely touted as the finest surviving specimen of its kind today.
The Medieval St. Mary Redcliffe Church is one of the largest in Britain, was richly endowed with money from Bristol's seamen and merchants and was highly praised by Queen Elizabeth I, who called it the "fairest, goodliest and most famous parish church in England." To get the full story of its illustrious history, take the guided tour or buy the guidebook from the small gift stall inside.
Arriving by train from London, St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, is the first impressive building that visitors will notice. On the riverside just before the railway station, it boasts the tallest spire in Bath and was built in 1862. Unusual rococo inside with pillars of Red Devonshire marble either side of the aisle, an ornate altar and ceiling, it's a large peaceful church rarely crowded for services. Also fairly original, next to the votive candle stand (an exclusively Catholic phenomenon), is a book where people write in the objects of their prayers. Visiting Polish priests occasionally celebrate mass here.
The Centre Space Gallery gives impetus to both upcoming and established artists alike to earn a livelihood through art. It provides good work at a reasonable price, a perfect antidote for highly priced art wares. For details of hiring and other information, visit the website.
The University of Bath is one of the most prestigious educational institutions in the country which attracts students from across the world. Located less than a mile from the heart of the old town, the surroundings are peaceful and conducive to an all-round development which fuses academics with sports, art and on-the-job training. Students graduating from here have always attracted the best employers who seek employees with a quality education. Check the website for more details on courses available.
St Mary's Church, Saltford, is a fine 13th-century church. Although much altered since its original construction, the church has still managed to maintain some of its original characteristics. Perhaps one of the most interesting pieces within the church is the 13th-century font which was defaced and lost, along with the rector at that time, during the battle of Lansdown only to be found later being used as a cattle trough. The font was restored and returned to the church, however tragically the rector was never heard of again. Although marked by a colorful and sometimes unfortunate past, the church today is cheerful place where people still meet to pray. Other points of interest include the finely embroidered kneelers, medieval and modern stained glass windows, and some curious memorials.
Although most of the existing structure of All Saints' Church dates back to around 1832, the tower is a 15th-century remnant of the previous church, and further additions were made over the years, each leaving its own unique mark. While the Gothic beauty of this church is something which cannot be missed, what makes this church truly special is the large collection of tablets inside and outside the church, some of which date back to the 12th Century, These tablets, although tragic in that they mark the death of an individual, tell the story of the church and the people it has served. Continuing in this long tradition of service, the church remains active even today and welcomes all to join in worship with open arms.
The cute little launch called Daffodil ferries around the Cardiff Bay, and functions as a popular tourist attraction, offering some of the best views in the city. The little boat has the capacity of about 12 people; aboard this boat, there are tailored tours as per the visitor's wishes. Whether you seek to explore Cardiff's scenery or have a look at it's skyline or plenty of wildlife that is the city's treasure, The Open Boat is sure to give you an insight like no other. Manned by professionals who know the city like the back of their hands, The Open Boat cruises last for just 20 minutes but they're quite the memorable 20 minutes.
A very welcoming church, the Hebron Church is an active church that is dedicated towards the community. It has excellent facilities for its visitors and has various events that happen throughout the year apart from the regular prayers and events. It has a Sunday School for kids which is highly educative. The church also conducts baptism.
The Church of St Thomas a Becket, Shirenewton, dates back to the 13th Century. As was the trend at that time, the church was built to serve the dual purpose of a place of worship and a defensive structure. This duality is evident from the architectural style of the square fortified tower. In 1853 the church was partially rebuilt, and underwent large-scale restoration which led to a loss of a great number of historical and religious artefacts along with the original architectural style. However, this church has still managed to maintain its character and charm. Housed within are a number of memorials that are of special interest to anyone with an appreciation for local history, and on the north and south walls of the chancel the six corbel stones have been carved in the form of human heads, including one of St. Thomas a Beckett. These and many other factors make this church of interest to visitors who are seeking out a warm and comfortable place to pray, as well as those interested in history and architecture,