Church Going

by Andrew Ziminski
Church Going cover
Good Books rating 4.5
History
Technical:
  • ID: 291
  • Added: 2025-09-07
  • Updated: 2025-09-18
  • ISBN: 9781800818705
  • Publisher: Profile Books
  • Published: 2024-10-17
  • Formats: 20
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £11.99 Hardback • £25.00

Church Going is a joyous and illuminating exploration of the glorious heritage of old churches across the British Isles. Drawing on decades of experience as a stonemason and church conservator, Andrew Ziminski acts as an informal guide to curious visitors, unveiling the fascinating histories, features, and furnishings of medieval churches—from flying buttresses to rood screens, lichgates to chancels. The book celebrates British architectural history with beautiful writing and rich illustrations, making even the most obscure details accessible and captivating. More than just a handbook, Church Going invites readers to appreciate churches not only as places of worship but also as vibrant community hubs and keys to understanding shared history. Ziminski’s insightful commentary reveals the craftsmanship, stories, and humor embedded in these ancient buildings, encouraging readers to see churches with fresh eyes and inspiring a new generation of church enthusiasts and stonemasons alike.

Reviews
ohct.org.uk · Unknown · 2025-09-18
excellent 4.50

Church Going by Andrew Ziminski is a beautifully written and informative guide to the churches of the British Isles, offering a unique perspective through the eyes of a stonemason. The book is praised for its detailed descriptions and the author's deep knowledge of church architecture and history.

Church Going by Andrew Ziminski is a delightful journey through the churches of the British Isles, seen through the lens of a stonemason. The author's expertise shines through in the detailed descriptions and historical context provided for each church. Readers will appreciate the unique perspective and the wealth of information shared. The book is not just a guide but a love letter to these historic structures, making it a must-read for anyone interested in architecture and history. The writing is engaging and informative, making complex topics accessible to a wide audience.

Quick quotes

    The book is a treasure trove of information for anyone interested in church architecture.

    Ziminski's passion for his subject is evident on every page.

    A must-read for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.

dailymail.co.uk · Unknown · 2024-11-01
joyous 4.50

Church Going by Andrew Ziminski is a joyous guide to the country church, filled with historical insights and personal anecdotes. The book highlights the beauty and significance of churches in the UK, offering a detailed look at their architecture and cultural importance.

Church Going by Andrew Ziminski is a delightful exploration of the country church, blending historical facts with personal experiences. The book is structured to follow the journey of a visitor through the churchyard, exterior, and interior, providing a comprehensive look at these sacred spaces. Ziminski's encyclopedic knowledge and engaging writing style make the book both informative and enjoyable. The author's anecdotes, such as the story of the spiders affecting a church door, add a touch of humor and levity to the subject. The book also delves into the historical significance of various church elements, like the altar, and how they have evolved over time. Overall, Church Going is a celebration of the artistry and devotion that went into creating these beautiful buildings, encouraging readers to appreciate them beyond their religious significance.

Quick quotes

    The British Isles is home to some of the most beautiful churches and in his new book, Church Going, Andrew Ziminski takes us through what makes them so special.

    Despite the rather dour nature of the subject, Ziminski adds an impressive amount of levity.

    What becomes abundantly clear in this rather joyous book is the skill and devotion to design and masonry that went into every church.

greeneheaton.co.uk · Unknown · 2024-10-24
fascinating 4.50

Andrew Ziminski's 'Church Going' offers a fascinating guide to the churches of the British Isles through the eyes of a stonemason. The book is praised for its vivid descriptions and expert insights, though it occasionally feels breathless in its rapid transitions between locations and details.

Andrew Ziminski's 'Church Going' is a captivating exploration of the churches of the British Isles, viewed through the lens of a stonemason's expertise. The book is structured around different parts of a church, from the churchyard to the interior, and is filled with vivid descriptions and personal anecdotes from Ziminski's extensive experience. The prose is engaging and wonder-filled, making it a delightful read for those interested in church architecture and history. However, the rapid shifts from one location or detail to another can sometimes feel dizzying, as if the reader is quickly moving from one church to another without much pause. Despite this, the book offers a wealth of knowledge, including lesser-known facts about church features like Sheela-na-Gigs and Sean-na-Gigs. Ziminski's optimism about the future of these churches, suggesting they will continue to be used for another thousand years, adds a hopeful note to the book.

Quick quotes

    This new volume is the follow-up to his acclaimed The Stonemason: A history of building Britain in 2020, and the vigour and wonder of his prose remains beguiling.

    It does inevitably have a slightly breathless quality, an occasional dizziness as you move from one paragraph to the next from a detached bell tower at Clonmacnoise, on the rugged banks of the River Shannon, on the site of one of Ireland’s greatest Celtic monasteries, to the gigantic teepee from the 1260s which adjoins St Augustine’s, Brookland, in gentler Kent.

    I suspect [these churches] will continue to be used for another thousand years, for whatever version of religious faith comes along next.

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