The Most Popular Hymn in the UK, Ranked

Choose the hymn you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 26, 2024 06:59
Hymns have long been a cornerstone of musical and spiritual life in the UK, each one carrying a unique resonance through lyrics and melodies that echo in churches, schools, and community gatherings. By establishing a ranking of these hymns, individuals gain insight into which tunes resonate most deeply across a diverse population. This not only highlights musical preferences but also, subtly, cultural influences that shape communal and personal identities. Through such rankings, new and long-standing members of communities can find common ground in shared musical heritage. Voting on your favorite hymns contributes to this evolving conversation, offering a snapshot of collective tastes and values at any given time. This active participation helps inform newcomers about the musical traditions that have been treasured and ensures that the pulse of popular sentiment is captured authentically.

What Is the Most Popular Hymn in the UK?

  1. 2
    52
    votes

    Jerusalem

    A hymn of patriotism and hope, with lyrics by William Blake and music by Sir Hubert Parry.
    • Composer: Sir Hubert Parry
    • Lyricist: William Blake
  2. 3
    22
    votes

    Be Thou My Vision

    A traditional Christian hymn of Irish origin, which is popular among English-speaking churches.
    • Origin: Ireland
    • Type: Traditional
  3. 5
    11
    votes

    The Lord's My Shepherd

    A version of Psalm 23, popular in the UK and often used in Christian worship.
    • Basis: Psalm 23
    • Type: Psalm
  4. 6
    9
    votes

    Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer

    A hymn written by William Williams in 1745, often sung in Welsh as 'Cwm Rhondda'.
    • Lyricist: William Williams
    • Year: 1745
  5. 7
    8
    votes

    Abide with Me

    A Christian hymn by Scottish Anglican Henry Francis Lyte, most famously performed at the FA Cup Final.
    • Lyricist: Henry Francis Lyte
    • Event Association: FA Cup Final
  6. 8
    0
    votes

    In Christ Alone

    A popular modern Christian song written by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend, first released in 2001.
    • Composers: Keith Getty & Stuart Townend
    • Year: 2001
  7. 9
    0
    votes

    Morning Has Broken

    A Christian hymn first published in 1931, with lyrics by Eleanor Farjeon set to a traditional Scottish Gaelic tune.
    • Lyricist: Eleanor Farjeon
    • Published: 1931
  8. 10
    0
    votes

    The Day Thou Gavest, Lord, Is Ended

    A hymn written by John Ellerton in 1870, often used to mark the end of worship services.
    • Lyricist: John Ellerton
    • Year: 1870

Missing your favorite hymn?

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular hymn in the UK. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Hymn is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2257 views
  • 198 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Hymn once every 24 hours. The rank of each Hymn is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Popular Hymn in the UK

Amazing Grace
Rank #1 for the most popular hymn in the UK: Amazing Grace (Source)
Hymns hold a special place in the hearts of many in the UK. They are sung in churches, schools, and at events. These songs often bring comfort and unity. They have been part of British culture for centuries.

A hymn usually has a simple, memorable tune. The words often reflect themes of hope, faith, and love. Many hymns come from the Bible or other religious texts. They aim to inspire and uplift those who sing them.

The tradition of hymn-singing in the UK dates back to the early Christian church. Over time, hymns evolved. In the 18th and 19th centuries, hymn-writing flourished. Many of the most beloved hymns were written during this period. Composers and poets worked together to create songs that were both beautiful and meaningful.

Hymns are often associated with key moments in life. They are sung at weddings, funerals, and other significant events. They provide a sense of continuity and tradition. People find comfort in singing the same hymns their ancestors sang.

Schools in the UK also play a role in keeping hymns alive. Many children learn hymns during assemblies. This helps to pass the tradition from one generation to the next. Singing hymns together can create a sense of community among students.

Churches remain central to the tradition of hymn-singing. Weekly services often include several hymns. These songs help to bring the congregation together. They also provide a way for people to express their faith.

Hymns have also found their way into popular culture. They are sometimes featured in films, television shows, and advertisements. This helps to keep them relevant in modern times. The melodies and words can evoke strong emotions and memories.

The appeal of hymns lies in their simplicity and depth. The tunes are easy to remember and sing. The words often speak to universal human experiences. This makes hymns accessible to a wide audience.

Hymn-singing is not just a passive activity. It involves active participation. People must listen, remember, and sing. This engagement can have a positive impact on mental and emotional well-being. Singing can also foster a sense of belonging and connection.

In recent years, some have worried that hymn-singing might decline. Changes in church attendance and school practices could affect this tradition. However, many efforts are being made to keep hymns alive. Community choirs, music festivals, and other events help to promote hymn-singing.

Technology also plays a role. Online platforms offer recordings and lyrics of hymns. This makes it easy for people to access and learn them. Social media allows people to share their favorite hymns with others.

Hymns remain a cherished part of British culture. They connect people to their past and to each other. Whether in a grand cathedral or a small village church, the sound of voices joined in song continues to resonate. The tradition of hymn-singing, with its rich history and enduring appeal, is likely to continue for many years to come.

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