All Saints Church, Kingston Upon Thames | Walton Upon Thames, United Kingdom

Welcome to All Saints Church

Nestled between the ancient Market Place and the bustling shopping centre of Kingston upon Thames, All Saints Church stands as a historic parish church representing a rich tapestry of time and tradition. As the only Grade I listed building (but not structure) in Kingston, this architectural marvel has been a silent witness to countless historical events, including the coronation of seven Saxon kings.

Historical Significance of All Saints Church

The origins of All Saints Church can be traced back to Saxon times when it served as a vital place of worship. In 838 AD, Egbert, king of Wessex, held his great council here, marking the beginning of its importance in local and national history. By the 10th century, it had become a prominent site for royal ceremonies, with seven Saxon kings, including the notable Æthelstan and Æthelred the Unready, being crowned in its hallowed grounds.

The Architectural Marvel

Construction of the current church began in 1120 under the reign of Henry I. It showcases a cruciform design featuring a central tower, a four-bay nave, Perpendicular clerestory windows, and a stunning array of north and south aisles, transepts, and chapels. The use of flint with stone dressings for the exterior and the stone battlements give the church a unique character, reflective of the period's architectural style.

Historic Moments That Shaped the Church

Through centuries of change and restoration, All Saints Church has survived and thrived. In fact, the >**tower has undergone multiple reconstructions** since its original iteration was struck by lightning in 1445.

14th Century: A wall painting of St. Blaise is added.
19th Century: Extensive restoration efforts revive its beauty and historical integrity.
1924: Memorial gates dedicated to the East Surrey Regiment are inaugurated, further embedding the church in community history.

Remarkable Interior Features

Once you step inside this historical site, you'll find breathtaking features that narrate stories from the past. Some highlights include:

A 17th-century marble font attributed to Sir Christopher Wren.
Beautiful stained glass windows from the Victorian Gothic Revival, most dating back to the mid-19th century.
Embroidery of the seven kings crowned in Kingston, created by artists of the Royal School of Needlework.

"This church is not just a building; it’s a living history book, waiting for you to explore its pages."

Monumental Tributes Inside the Church

All Saints Church also serves as a final resting place for many notable figures. Its interiors contain memorials such as:

The memorial for Sir Anthony Benn, the Recorder of Kingston, displaying a striking effigy.
Honoring Cesar Picton, a former enslaved individual turned successful coal merchant in the community.
A commemorative brass for Robert Skerne, revealing connections between the church and the local legal community.

Visiting All Saints Church: A Gateway to History

For history buffs, the beauty of All Saints Church lies not just in its age but in its continual relevance as a cultural site. Today, it stands as one of the must-visit tourist attractions in Walton upon Thames, a picturesque town offering numerous landmarks for exploration.

With AllTours, you can experience All Saints Church through expertly crafted audio tours that guide you through its rich history and architectural wonders. You'll have the opportunity to visit at your own pace, making the most of your exploration.

Conclusion: Unraveling the Threads of History

All Saints Church in Kingston upon Thames is more than just a place of worship; it's a crucial piece of the puzzle that makes up the history of the United Kingdom. Its architectural brilliance, combined with the wealth of stories contained within its walls, makes it a true historical landmark for both locals and visitors.

Ready to make this discovery? Join the Kingston Chronicles: An Enchanting Tapestry of Time tour to explore All Saints Church and other incredible sites in Walton upon Thames.