Hundreds of local churches across the UK could close within the next five years, according to a major new survey published by the National Churches Trust.
The 2025 National Churches Survey gathered responses from more than 3,500 churches across all major denominations.
It found rural churches were the least likely to have confidence that they will remain open, with up to 7 per cent (900 churches) saying they could close by 2030. Meanwhile, 2,000 churches said they will “definitely” or “probably” not be used as a place of worship in five years.
The report also revealed widespread issues with church buildings, with many in poor or dangerous condition due to years of underfunding and rising repair costs.
⛪ Almost one in three churches could be closed by end of the decadehttps://t.co/5DxIFZCwFI
— The Telegraph (@Telegraph) October 21, 2025