# What Is Lent? Dates & Ash Wednesday

> Canonical: https://churchnearme.org.uk/guides/what-is-lent

Church Near Me explains Lent — forty days of fasting, prayer and giving from Ash Wednesday to Easter. Lent {year} begins on {formatLongGb(ashWednesday)}. Ash Wednesday services are public; you may receive the ash cross or simply sit. Confirm times with the parish.

## FAQs

### When does Lent start in 2027?

Lent 2027 begins on Ash Wednesday, 10 February 2027. Lent always begins 46 days before Easter Sunday.

### How long does Lent last?

Lent lasts 40 days, not counting Sundays. Including Sundays, the season runs for 46 days — from Ash Wednesday through to Holy Saturday.

### What is Ash Wednesday?

Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent, observed in Catholic, Anglican, Methodist and many other churches. The minister makes the sign of the cross on the foreheads of worshippers using ash, saying 'Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.'

### What should I give up for Lent?

Traditionally, Christians give up something they enjoy — food, social media, alcohol — as a form of fasting that focuses the mind on prayer and reflection. Many Christians also take something on for Lent: a daily reading or charitable practice.

### What is Shrove Tuesday?

Shrove Tuesday (Pancake Day) is the day before Ash Wednesday. Historically, Christians used up rich foods before the Lenten fast. The word 'shrove' comes from 'shrive,' meaning to confess sins.

### Can I attend Ash Wednesday if I am not a churchgoer?

Yes. Ash Wednesday services are public. You may receive the ash cross on your forehead, or sit and watch. Nobody will ask you to join. Skip it if you need a funeral, wedding or baptism — those need a conversation with the parish, not a seasonal service.

### How do I find a Lent or Easter service near me?

Use Churches Near Me with a postcode, then open the Easter services page for Holy Week dates. Ash Wednesday, Palm Sunday, Good Friday and Easter Day times appear on a church profile only where verified. Confirm with the parish before travelling.

Read the full guide: https://churchnearme.org.uk/guides/what-is-lent