Historic Churches > Dictionary

Illustrated Dictionary of British Churches - Early English Definition

History and Architecture

Early English

The first phase of Gothic architecture in Britain. The Early English period spanned the years from 1180 to around 1275, following the Romanesque, or Norman period in architecture. The period is sometimes called the Lancet, or First Pointed period. The former term refers to the tall, narrow, pointed windows that were common in Early English style, and the latter term refers to the fact that this was the period when the rounded Romanesque arch was replaced with the pointed Gothic arch.

Early English style is characterised by:

  • pointed arches
  • quadripartite (four part) ribbed vaults
  • lancet windows
  • clustered shafts of tall, narrow piers
The Early English period was followed by the Decorated Gothic period.

Related: Arch   Lancet   Romanesque   Gothic  




National Trust

National Trust membership

National Trust membership

Free entry to National Trust properties throughout England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, plus discounted admission to National Trust for Scotland properties.

Membership details

About the National Trust


HISTORY CORNER

Name the Historic attraction

Name the mystery historic attraction
See larger image



British History Quiz

This notorious favourite of Edward II was created the Earl of Cornwall and Keeper of the Realm



This Day in British History

06 December, 1648

Pride's Purge

Colonel Thomas Pride rids the House of Commons of royalist dissidents, freeing the way for the trial of Charles I

Monarch Mayhem

This king confronted Wat Tyler during the Peasant's Revolt of 1381



Passionate about British Heritage!