In the picturesque village of Privett stands one of the most beautiful and well-maintained churches you could imagine—Holy Trinity Church. Its spire rises dramatically above the 300 parishioners it once served and is visible for many miles around.
I recently visited Holy Trinity Church with the Churches Conservation Trust (CCT) and a group of dedicated local volunteers. The CCT oversees a number of historic churches in Hampshire.
Locally, as well as Privett, these include St Peter ad Vincula in Colemore, which dates back to the twelfth century, and the chancel of the Old Church of St Mary the Virgin in Preston Candover. All three are well worth a visit; many do so in combination with a walk.
The CCT’s mission is to protect churches at risk of falling into disrepair, bringing communities together to safeguard these special buildings for future generations.
Privett’s Holy Trinity Church was built by the Nicholson family, made famous by Nicholson gin. William Nicholson funded the church as a display of his devotion to God.
Nicholson’s impeccable taste is evident throughout the church. From the stunning stained-glass windows to the intricate mosaic floors in the chancel, and the soaring vaulted roof, every detail gives the impression more of a small cathedral rather than a church in a small village. The tower, home to eight working bells, is equally impressive—I even had the chance to try ringing one myself (it’s harder than it looks!).
By 1975, however, and without a large enough population to serve, Holy Trinity was decommissioned as a place of regular worship. Today, it serves the community in other ways, hosting events, music concerts, and the occasional wedding, supported by the nearby Privett Centre.
Like many historic buildings, the church is as costly to maintain as it is beautiful. Repairing the roof alone is estimated to cost upwards of £100,000..
The government’s recent decision to cap VAT relief is a blow to churches like Holy Trinity. While the ‘Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme’ has been extended until 2026—following fears it would be scrapped entirely—the cap on claims means additional fundraising is required to cover repairs and VAT liabilities.
Whether or not you are religious, it’s clear that churches play a big role in our communities. Beyond regular worship, weddings, christenings and funerals, they serve as vital hubs for social interaction and support. Over 4,000 churches will open their doors this winter as part of the ‘Warm Welcome Spaces’ campaign, offering shelter and companionship to those in need.
Historic churches are costly to maintain for the next generation – but they are an irreplaceable part of our cultural heritage. The government needs to re-think its approach and ensure a long term future for the Listed Places of Worship programme. For more on CCT churches, local walks and access go to visitchurches.org.uk