England's Other Cathedrals

The greatest of England's cathedrals are widely considered the country's finest and most famous buildings. Few people realise, however, that in addition to thse outstanding buildings there are many others that share, or once shared, some of that greatness. In Anglo-Saxon times there were many cathedrals that later lost that status; most of their sites can be visited, and many show something fine or interesting. In the Middle Ages there were many major churches that were or might have become cathedrals, and some were of comparable size and magnificence to those we know today. A few of these still exist; some are in ruins. Moreover, some of the great cathedrals had major predecessor buildings on their sites, and some of these are known from archaeology or illustrations. More recently, from 1836 onwards, a series of new cathedrals arose, both for the Church of England and other Churches - some newly built, others adaptations of existing buildings. In addition, the term 'cathedral' has been informally attached to other buildings, often of beauty or importance. England's Other Cathedrals is an illustrated guide to these interesting and important buildings.

Résumé
England's great cathedrals are widely considered to be the country's finest and most beautiful possessions. Few people realise, however, that in addition to these famous buildings there are many others that share, or once shared, some of that greatness. These 'other cathedrals' have very varied origins. There were cathedrals established in Anglo-Saxon times that subsequently lost that status. Further cathedrals founded after the Norman Conquest also later ceased. Henry VIII had plans to elevate many great monastic churches to cathedral status, but most were unfulfilled. From the nineteenth century onwards, many new cathedrals have been created, both by the Church of England and by other Churches. Altogether eight groups are discussed, containing in total well over a hundred buildings. Most are fine, and many are or were in their size and magnificence fully comparable with the great cathedrals themselves. Some today stand complete and glorious. Others are now mutilated or in ruin. Some have been completely destroyed, but even these may stir us by their lost glories. Paul Jeffery explores the often fascinating episodes of history that lie behind these groups of magnificent and frequently forgotten buildings. The spotlight is then turned on each one, revealing many architectural and historical treasures.