Stow Minster

Stow Minster is a stone church with massive columns, tall arches, and Norman architectural details arranged in a cruciform layout in Lincolnshire. The structure reveals how different building styles were incorporated over time, creating a complex interior space.

The church was founded around 975 by Bishop Aelfnoth as the principal Minster for the Lincolnshire diocese. It later lost this status and became a parish church, marking a shift in its religious importance.

The church displays Early English fonts supported by nine pillars carved with ancient pagan symbols. Wall paintings inside depict Saint Thomas Becket, showing how religious devotion shaped the decoration of this space over time.

The church is open daily from 8:30 AM until dusk, with restrooms and cafes nearby for visitors. Good daylight helps when exploring the stone interior, so morning hours work well for a visit.

The stone walls contain the earliest known Viking graffiti in England, a ship carved into the surface from the 10th century. This rare carving offers a glimpse into the connection between this region and Scandinavian seafarers during the early medieval period.

Location: Stow

Inception: 11 century

Architectural style: Anglo-Saxon architecture

Website: http://stowminster.org.uk

GPS coordinates: 53.32750,-0.67722

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:41