St Mary & St Hardulph is a remarkable church not least for its setting, dominating the local landscape and towering above the surrounding countryside.
Breedon on the Hill, Leicestershire
It is well known for its exquisite Breedon Angel, a stone carving thought to be one of the earliest representations of angels anywhere in Europe.
The church is there for a reason: its original foundation was in the 7th century as an Augustinian monastery when it was important for monks to see any hostile forces approaching in plenty of time. Today, this isolated and lofty location gives the church deep peace and spectacular views.
There is plenty to see inside as well: some early medieval stone carvings, a stunning stained glass east window and a grisly family tomb complete with marble skeleton.
Drive up to the car park or clamber up the hill; either way, it will be well worth the effort!
Staunton Harold, Leicestershire
The chapel is in an idyllic position, with the big house on one side and a lake on the other. It is a building entirely in the Gothic style, but was actually built during the 17th century Commonwealth.
Castle Donington, Leicestershire
Dating from the 13th and 14th centuries, the church commands a large open space surrounded by pretty Georgian houses and as befitting this large village is quite large.
Thringstone, Leicestershire
