Illustrated Dictionary of British Churches - Herringbone Definition

History and Architecture

Herringbone

A form of stonework common in the Saxon and early Norman periods, where alternating courses of stones are laid on opposing diagonal angles (for example, one course leans to the left, the next course leans to the right). The resulting stones were said to resemble fish bones, hence the name. Herringbone stonework is often found in the exterior walls of late Saxon churches.



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



Featured National Trust Property
Studley Royal Water Garden

Studley Royal Water Garden
In 1722 John Aislabie retired to his estates at Studley Royal, near Ripon, after the South Sea Bubble scandal erupted during his tenure as Chancellor of the Exchequer. For the next 20 years, he worked …

Passionate about British Heritage!