Cathedral of Trees

Kookaburra - I went on a photography walk today near where I live.

Most people think that the city of Milton Keynes does not have a cathedral. In fact it has a very beautiful one entirely made of trees.

This cathedral of trees is based on Norwich Cathedral and was designed by landscape architect Neil Higson. The plan of the ‘building’ was shaped in earth and planted in 1986, with a range of different tree species used to establish the character of its component parts.

Tall evergreen trees form the central tower and spires of the west and east ends, and pines define the walls.

The Nave is lined with Fastigate Hornbeam and tall growing Lime trees.

Poplars occupy the north and south aisles, removed as slower growing species reach maturity.

The choir is planted with Golden Ash and the chancel in Holm Oak. Flowering cherries and apples form foci in the chapels.

The Transepts are simply treated but punctuated with small columnar evergreens at focal points.

The Cloisters take the form of a large slightly sunken square lined with Hornbeam.

The Chapter House is a conical mound, crowned with laurels, from the top of which the cathedral can be viewed.

I took this shot from the altar looking back towards the West Door.

I couldn't manage to make my own challenge today. sorry. Back on track tomorrow :-))