The Oldest Continuously Used Buildings in England: A Historical Journey
The Oldest Continuously Used Buildings in England: A Historical Journey
The question of what the oldest building still in daily use is in England has fascinated historians, architects, and curious visitors for centuries. This article explores the contenders, focusing on the St. Martin in the Fields Church in Canterbury, Salford Manor House in Somerset, and other notable structures that span the history of English architecture.
The Oldest Known Continuously Used Building in England
The most widely recognized answer to the question of the oldest building in daily use in England is The Church of St. Martin in the Fields in Canterbury, which has origins dating back to around 597 AD. Despite modifications and extensions over the centuries, this church has been in continuous use for worship and other activities, making it a significant historical site. The tower and west wall of the church were built in 674 AD, highlighting the longevity and enduring importance of this structure in English history.
Saltford Manor House: Contender for the Oldest House in England
Another contender for the title of the oldest house in England is Salthford Manor House in Somerset, dating from around 1150. This Norman house is thought to be the oldest continuously inhabited house in Britain. While it may not have the same historical significance as the church in Canterbury, its longevity as a resident home provides a captivating insight into the daily lives of English families over the centuries.
Other Notable Structures
Several other buildings in England also vie for the title of the oldest in daily use. One such building is the Westminster Hall in the Palace of Westminster, which dates back to 1097. Although it primarily serves as a ceremonial space, it remains a significant landmark in English history. Another contender is the Lincoln Cathedral, which is dated to 1072 AD and stands as the oldest surviving building in the UK.
Dean's House in St Andrews, Scotland
Spanning the border into Scotland, the Dean's House in St Andrews may be as old as or older than the medieval cathedral it stands near. Extensively modified and added to over the centuries, much of the masonry retains a Romanesque style, consisting of small squared blocks. It is currently used as a student hall of residence, potentially qualifying it for the title of the oldest building in daily use.
Further Contenders: Dover Castle and Tarr Steps
Lastly, we cannot overlook the Dover Castle, which includes Roman structures dating back to the early 100s AD as part of its complex. A lighthouse built in this period is part of the castle. The Tarr Steps, a clapper bridge on Exmoor, are another potential contender, estimated to be built around 1300–1400 AD, or possibly even earlier in the Bronze Age, around 1000 BC.
In conclusion, while the Church of St. Martin in the Fields in Canterbury is widely recognized as the oldest building in daily use in England, the county is rife with other remarkable structures with deep historical roots. Each of these buildings offers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of English history and architecture.