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  




English Heritage

English Heritage membership

English Heritage membership

Free entry to English Heritage properties throughout England, plus discounted admission to Historic Scotland and Cadw properties in Scotland and Wales.

Membership details

About English Heritage


HISTORY CORNER

Name the Historic attraction

Name the mystery historic attraction
See larger image



British History Quiz

This first president of the Royal Academy was the foremost portrait painter of the late 18th century



This Day in British History

29 April, 1916

End of Easter Rising in Dublin

The Easter Rising was one of the pivotal events in finally convincing Britain to grant Home Rule to Ireland

Monarch Mayhem

This king imprisoned his mother Isabella at Castle Rising



Passionate about British Heritage!