All Saints, Orpington Church

Image Source: John Vigar

 

This is one of the must-see churches of Kent – not least for the way in which the 1950s extension changed the orientation of the church, but also for the way in which 21st century improvements have created a memorable interior. The medieval chancel is still in use, and separated from the church by a Rood Screen by Caroe. It contains a fine brass of Thomas Wilkynson (1511) and a lovely reredos set on a tiled ground. The current nave (1957), which is set at 90 degrees to the original nave and which is now a useful empty space, is dominated by a contemporary reredos by Brian Thomas and by its star spangled ceiling recently brought out by repainting. Throughout the church are exemplary 20c windows by L C Evetts whilst the most amazing thing to see is a Saxon sundial now set into the wall near the font, and inscribed in Runes. It was found in the wall rubble when building the present nave and must show that the older parts of this church are of Saxon date. Do not be put off by the unprepossessing exterior. Here is a church with something for everyone.

 

 

Church Data

 

1851 Census Details

 

Seating Capacity: No return

Morning Attendance: No return

Afternoon Attendance: No return

Evening Attendance: No return

 

Architecture Details

 

Original Build Date/Architect: Medieval

Restoration: Geddes and Hyslop 1957

Second Restoration:

 

Notes

 

 

Website

 

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Contact Details

 

Queries Relating to this Church

 

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