Michael Palin does peace and quiet in church

Actor and broadcaster Michael Palin has revealed that he likes the peace and quiet of church.

Part of the 50 Things to do in a church campaign, vice president of the National Churches Trust Palin shares his experience of finding solace in church.

The campaign celebrates the many and diverse uses of church buildings and asks the public to share their favourite things to do in a church or chapel. 

Claire Walker, chief executive of the National Churches Trust said: "50 things to do in a church makes it clear that churches, chapels and meeting houses are a tremendous asset to local people and communities throughout the UK.

 "We'd love to hear from the public about some of their favourite things to do in a church or chapel. People can add to our list and post photographs on our website at or by visiting our Facebook page.

Some of the 50 things include going to a comedy night, or finding the church cat, seeing the tomb of someone famous or researching family history, enjoying a cream tea or – for the adventurous – abseiling down a church spire.

Clare Walker added: "I hope 50 things to do in a church will encourage more people to discover some of the great things that it is possible to do in a church or chapel and explore some of their amazing history and architecture. 

"There is no better place to find a Green Man, light a candle, find the tomb of someone famous or get involved in helping the community."

The National Churches Trust is the leading national independent charity concerned with the protection and welfare of churches, chapels and meeting houses throughout the United Kingdom. They provide grants for the repair, maintenance and modernisation of church buildings, help to improve and bring more resources to the management of church buildings, and promote the value of church buildings to the community at large.