Get to know: All Saints' Church, Alton Priors

On the second Monday of each month, we welcome members' of CCT to an exclusive lecture. Each lecture starts with a brief exploration of the historical and architectural highlights of one of the churches in our care. Today we are revisiting host Victoria Jenners' vibrant account of the history of All Saints' Church, Alton Priors, which introduced Dr Alex Langland's inspiring lecture "Old Sarum, a greedy bishop and the twilight of Norman England" in October 2024.

To become a member of CCT and enjoy access to exclusive monthly lectures and recordings of past lectures on CCTDigital from just £3.50 a month, sign up here on our website. Alternatively, email, [email protected], for more information.

Nestled in the tranquil countryside, this church is a short distance from its sister church, St Mary’s in Alton Barnes, and just across a picturesque stream. Surrounded by open fields, All Saints' has stood in this peaceful setting for nearly 900 years.

The churchyard is home to a magnificent yew tree, believed to be over 1700 years old. This tree has seen centuries of history unfold and continues to watch over the church, adding a deep sense of continuity to this already ancient landscape. The church itself is a hidden gem.

All Saints’ Church dates back to the 12th century, originally built during the Norman period. Although many parts of the church were rebuilt in the medieval and later periods, one significant element of its Norman past still remains: the chancel arch. This is a rare survival from the original church, connecting us to the time when All Saints’ first served the local community.

The name “Alton Priors” reflects the church’s early ties to the Benedictine Priory of St Swithun’s in Winchester, which owned the land here for centuries. This connection further highlights the church’s deep roots in early English Christian history.

The Norman Chancel Arch: A Surviving Monument

One of the most important features of All Saints' Church is the Norman chancel arch. Simple, unmoulded, and elegant in its restraint, this arch is typical of the Norman architectural style, which favoured sturdy, functional designs. The arch’s imposts are decorated with a small pellet frieze—a delicate detail that provides a glimpse into the craftsmanship of the church’s original builders.

This arch has withstood nearly 900 years of change, serving as a powerful reminder of the church’s Norman origins. It frames the chancel, drawing visitors’ eyes to the heart of the church and providing a direct link to the 12th-century foundation of this sacred space.

The Evolution of the Church: From Norman to Medieval

In the 14th century, the nave was widened, transforming the interior space and allowing the church to accommodate a larger congregation. The western tower, built later in the Perpendicular style, is a striking feature of the church’s architecture, crafted from finely cut ashlar, a hallmark of high-quality building materials typical of this period.

Over time, All Saints’ has evolved, each architectural addition telling a story about the church’s role in the community and reflecting the changing tastes and needs.

A Building Steeped in History and Mystery

All Saints' is not only architecturally significant but also a place of mystery. Inside the church, beneath a trapdoor, lies a Sarsen stone—a type of sandstone block famously associated with prehistoric monuments like Stonehenge. The presence of this ancient stone raises intriguing questions. Was it brought here during the construction of the church, or does it mark the site of an earlier, perhaps sacred, place? The answer remains unknown, but it adds to the church's unique character.

Outside, the 1700-year-old yew tree, older than the church itself, stands as a sentinel over this historic site, linking us to a time before the church even existed.

The Early Christian Community at Alton Priors

The name "Alton Priors" speaks to the church’s early Christian roots. During the 9th century, the lands of Alton Priors came under the control of St Swithun’s Priory in Winchester. This Benedictine community played an important role in shaping the religious landscape of England, and its influence extended to this small village in Wiltshire.

The Interior: Simple but Historic

Inside All Saints' Church, the lime-washed walls and large timber roof trusses create a barn-like aesthetic, emphasizing the simplicity and rustic charm of the building.

The Jacobean choir stalls, a rare survival from the early 17th century, add a touch of grandeur to the space. These beautifully crafted wooden stalls are a testament to the craftsmanship of their time. In addition, the communion plate, which includes a cup dated to 1577 and a paten from 1638, reflects the long history of worship at All Saints’.

The church also holds a brass memorial plaque commemorating William Button, who died in 1590. This plaque, which depicts Button rising from his tomb towards the gates of heaven, is one of the most remarkable historic features in the church.

A Church in Need of Restoration

Despite its rich history and significance, All Saints' Church has faced serious challenges in recent years. In 2015, the church suffered a devastating lead theft, which left its roof damaged and vulnerable. While essential repairs have been made, the church is still in need of further restoration to preserve its fabric and ensure it remains a safe and accessible space for visitors and the community.

Maintaining a building of this age is a costly endeavour. All Saints' Church costs £3,689 annually to maintain, covering basic upkeep, repairs, and the conservation of its unique features.

All Saints' Church has stood as a beacon of history and faith for nearly 900 years, but its future relies on the support of people like you. By making a donation today, you can help us repair the damage from the lead theft, preserve the church’s unique features, and ensure that its story continues for generations to come.

Please consider making a donation on our website by clicking here, or to donate by text, please text 'WEN' to 70970 to donate £5 and to 70191 to donate £10.

Thank you.

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