Secret churches - Richard Surman

A glimpse at some of Britain and Ireland's most intriguing churches, each harbouring architectural, historical or artistic secrets. Beautifully presented, Richard Surman's tour includes photographs of every church and an illustrated glossary. Can be used as a gift, reference or field guide.

The churches of the Britain and Ireland are a unique showcase of craftsmanship and offer an intriguing glimpse into Christianity down the centuries. Some are celebrated landmarks, others are well-hidden, but every church harbours its own stories and secrets.

The secrets of these churches span the centuries - from the sixth century Irish monastery of Clonmacnoise in Offaly, to the 1960s Jean Cocteau murals at London's Notre Dame de France. Other churches form part of an historic landscape, such as the remote Romney Marsh churches or St Cwyfan's, perched on its rocky islet on the coast of Anglesey.

Some churches give up their secrets on first acquaintance, others keep their secrets close, like the fifteenth century carvings of Rosslyn Chapel. All have their stories to tell, from the remote hut-like chapel on Orkney decorated with elaborate frescos by Italian POWs, to the seaside church in Whitby whose roof was made by local shipwrights.

Featuring over 250 churches from around the British Isles, with colour photographs of every church as well as maps showing their location and an illustrated glossary, Secret Churches is an invaluable reference guide and a captivating read.