Situated in an elevated position above the River Wear, Durham Cathedral is one of the greatest examples of Norman architecture in Britain. Begun in 1093, it took around 40 years to complete.
One of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world, York Minster was begun in 1230 but not completed until over 200 years later - meaning it showcases various stages of Gothic architecture. The cathedral is particularly noted for its beautiful stained glass.
Easily England's most recognisable cathedral, St Paul's in London was built between 1675 and 1710 after its predecessor was destroyed in the Great Fire of London. It was designed by Sir Christopher Wren, who is buried there; the Latin inscription on his tomb reads "If you are seeking his monument, look around you".
Salisbury Cathedral is said to be unique among medieval English cathedrals for having been built in just 38 years in a single architectural style, Early English Gothic. It also boasts the tallest church spire in the UK, the largest cloister, and one of the world's oldest working clocks.
Reputedly the tallest building in the world when it was first built in the medieval period, Lincoln Cathedral was described by John Ruskin as "the most precious piece of architecture in the British Isles and roughly speaking worth any two other cathedrals we have". One of the stone carvings inside is known as the "Lincoln imp", about whom many legends exist
Sometimes described as Britain's most beautiful cathedral, Wells Cathedral was built between 1175 and 1490. It unusually has retained about 300 of its original medieval statues.
Known locally as "the ship of the fens" because of the way it looms above the surrounding flatlands, the present Ely Cathedral was began by Abbot Simeon in 1083, and took 300 years to fully construct. It combines Norman style with Gothic elements.
The longest uninterrupted vaulted ceiling in England can be found at Exeter Cathedral, which was completed by around 1400. Part of it was hit by a bomb during the Second World War, but it has since been restored.
Christ Church Cathedral in Oxford is unusual in that it is part of another building, Oxford University's Christ Church college. It is also one of the country's smallest cathedrals.
The seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, Canterbury Cathedral was founded in 597, but rebuilt and significantly extended over the years. The cathedral is part of the World Heritage Site of Canterbury, along with St Augustine's Abbey and ancient Church of St Martin.
One of England's largest cathedrals, Winchester grew out of a small Saxon church. The remains of many famous Saxon kings are stored here.
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