Church buildings matter

Most people take it for granted that their parish church will be there for ever - many feel comforted by the continuity it provides. But imagine if your Church wasn’t there. If it fell into disrepair; no longer safe to use; that familiar, comforting presence gone, all because of a lack of resources for essential repairs.

The Church of England does not generally fund repairs to Parish Churches. Heritage England rarely does, and the Heritage Lottery Fund application process is challenging. Heritage buildings are expensive to repair, listed buildings more so, with costs often not affordable by local communities. The burden falls on the church and parish to raise funds.

In the past 30 years, BHHCT has awarded £4.2 million in grants to repair local churches and chapels thanks to the generosity of supporters through legacies, donations and fundraising.

For centuries, churches have inspired people - not only as as places of prayer, worship and reflection. Within their walls people marry, are baptised, and say goodbye to departed loved ones. Churches are often the only public building that remains in a village.

Churches are increasingly important centres of artistic and social activity, and embrace charities, support groups and children’s play schemes. Our churches offer an unparalleled resource for teaching about history, architecture and design as well as faith. There are examples of churches we have helped on our Grants Awarded page.

Please help us save the past for the future by making a donation to the Trust.

Bike 'n Hike is our main fundraising activity every September, on the second Saturday of the month, raising over £110,000 in 2025.

There are lots of ways to get involved:

• Get sponsored to visit churches on the day and raise funds.
• Be part of a welcome team at your local church to greet hikers.
• Become an area organiser for this event.
• Sponsor someone who is taking part.

This fun events also helps the churches which participate. Find out more on our Bike 'n Hike page.

Your donation helps create a secure, sustainable income so we can save church buildings for the future.         

A gift in your will helps future generations. Find out more in our Legacy leaflet or contact our Chairman, Mrs Madeline Russell: [email protected]