All Saints Church Hastings
A historic 15th-century church in Hastings Old Town, famed for its medieval wall painting and magnificent Father Willis organ.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Summer organ concerts
All Saints Church Hastings
Best Time
Summer organ concerts
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 15th-century church in Hastings Old Town, famed for its medieval wall painting and magnificent Father Willis organ.
"A truly remarkable Father Willis organ and a fascinating medieval church with a peaceful churchyard."
🎶 Attend an Organ Recital
Don't miss the summer Monday evening organ concerts! Top organists play the Father Willis organ.
🚶 Explore the Churchyard
A peaceful spot for a break, reading, or enjoying the historic ambiance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Father Willis Organ
Main Nave
A beautifully restored Victorian organ, renowned for its magnificent sound and host to summer concert series.
Medieval Wall Painting
Chancel Arch
A fascinating centuries-old wall painting above the chancel arch, offering a glimpse into the church's rich history.
Stained Glass Windows
Various locations
Admire the intricate details and vibrant colors of the beautiful stained glass windows, adding to the church's ambiance.
Historic Churchyard
Exterior grounds
A peaceful and pleasant churchyard, ideal for a quiet break, reading, or enjoying the historic atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Organ Recitals
Accessibility and Churchyard Peace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎶 Attend an Organ Recital
Don't miss the summer Monday evening organ concerts! Top organists play the Father Willis organ.
🚶 Explore the Churchyard
A peaceful spot for a break, reading, or enjoying the historic ambiance.
♿ Accessibility Options
A slope is available for mobility scooters, though there are steps to the main church.
🖼️ Admire the Art
Look for the medieval wall painting and beautiful stained glass windows.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎶 Attend an Organ Recital
Don't miss the summer Monday evening organ concerts! Top organists play the Father Willis organ.
🚶 Explore the Churchyard
A peaceful spot for a break, reading, or enjoying the historic ambiance.
♿ Accessibility Options
A slope is available for mobility scooters, though there are steps to the main church.
🖼️ Admire the Art
Look for the medieval wall painting and beautiful stained glass windows.
🛍️ Support Church Funds
Homemade jams and marmalades are often on sale to support church funds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise All Saints Church Hastings for its impressive medieval architecture, beautiful stained glass, and the magnificent Father Willis organ. The summer organ concert series is a particular highlight, drawing acclaimed musicians. The peaceful churchyard offers a welcome break, though some note accessibility challenges due to steps.
"Impressive grade 2 listed church dating back to the early 1400s. Notable features include beautiful stained glass windows, a Victorian organ, and a painting over the chancel arch. The churchyard is a pleasant place to take a few moments break from the bustle of town."
Andrew Thomas
"Remarkable organ recital on this fantastic Father Willis organ. Which has great organists gathering from all corners of the cathedral world in July. Tonight it was David Newsholme who is Director of Music at Canterbury. Beautiful rendition of Bach's double fugue Passacaglia in C and the mighty chorale Sei gegrüßet . 2nd half some more fabulous playing and I particularly enjoyed Cesar Franck's Prelude, Fugue and variation. The programme ended with an arrangement of Danny Boy. Described by the performer as a like warm cup of cocoa. Bit more than that. Its what happens when an expert and a great tune are combined. Pure magic!
Tonight it was the turn of Dr Matt Geer. The Director of Music at All Saints. An unusual programme which explored an early piece from Robertsbridge Abbey to a sparse and melancholy Requiem from Abbé Liszt via Hindemith. And in the second half the mystical world of Pärt and himself. Great is the mystery of faith! To a finale in which I thought we had left the tonal world for good ..to be brought back to organ earth with a rousing Bach encore. Quite a journey from the young Doctor to explore some unusual paths in the organ repertoire. And for me. I should add that he was very well received by an enthusiastic in the audience. To whom he was very attentive. Which is always a good thing. Unlike one of the earlier performers in the series.
My final visit to All Saints was to hear Darius Battiwala on 25th August. I invited a friend from Charterhouse days who had been a very good oboeist ( although i doubt it has seen the light of day since c1976) and had expressed an interest in organ music. Well Darius, who is the Leeds City Hall organist and a very accomplished recitalist delivered the goods. With nobs on. This was a fantastic programme delivered by a top performer. After his introduction by our host for the series (who i think is married to the previous organist) he went straight into a dazzling rendition of Bach's Fantasia and Fugue in Gm. He then took the microphone and went in some detail about the rest of his programme in the first half which included a piece by Edward Lemare - who was to appear later in the second half - a Fantaisie by Saint-Saents and a lengthy sonata (1) by Guilmant which brought the first hour to a thrilling close. We stayed mainly in the latter half of the 19th century, We began with Florence Price and Cesar Frank and after 3 pieces by Alfred Hollins we came to the finale. And what a finale! Lemare's Carmen Fantasy. With the assistance of the recently retired All Saints organist almost all the stops were used on all the manuals of Father Willis's 1878 creation. This was a Bravura performance - accompanied by precise economical footwork - by a master practitioner. A thrilling end to a marvellous recital and a fitting finale to the concert series at All Saints."
Stephen Tanner
"We are volunteering to maintain the graves and upkeep due lack of council interest"
History hunters Uk
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
All Saints Church is located in Hastings Old Town. It's easily accessible on foot from the town center. If driving, parking may be limited in the Old Town, so consider public transport or walking from nearby car parks.
Parking in Hastings Old Town can be challenging. There are several car parks available, but they can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Walking from the town center is often recommended.
Exploring Hastings Old Town on foot is the best way to discover its charm. All Saints Church is a key landmark within this historic area.
Absolutely! All Saints Church is a central point in Hastings Old Town, making it an easy addition to any day trip exploring the coastal town.
Yes, local buses serve Hastings Old Town, bringing you close to All Saints Church. Check local bus routes for the most convenient options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to All Saints Church itself is typically free, though donations are welcome to support its upkeep. Special events like organ recitals may have a ticket price.
Opening hours can vary, but the church is generally open during daylight hours for visitors. It's advisable to check locally or look for signs if you plan a specific visit.
Tickets for the summer organ concerts are usually available on the door, but it's wise to arrive early as they are popular.
Visitors are expected to be respectful of the church as a place of worship. Photography is generally permitted, but be mindful of any services or events taking place.
Yes, donations are greatly appreciated to help maintain this historic church. Donation boxes are usually available inside.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find the impressive Father Willis organ, beautiful stained glass windows, and a medieval wall painting above the chancel arch.
While there are steps to enter the main church, a slope is available for mobility scooters. The churchyard also offers accessible paths.
Photography is generally allowed inside All Saints Church, but always be respectful of ongoing services or other visitors.
The Father Willis organ is a beautifully restored Victorian instrument, famous for its powerful sound and a highlight of the church's musical offerings, especially during summer recitals.
The churchyard is a peaceful place to rest, read a book, or simply enjoy the historic surroundings and quiet atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Hastings Old Town has numerous pubs, cafes, and restaurants offering a variety of dining options, from traditional pub fare to seafood.
While not a dining venue, you might find homemade jams and marmalades for sale to support church funds.
Seafood is a local specialty, given Hastings' fishing heritage. You'll also find classic British pub food and international cuisine.
Many pubs and cafes in the Old Town are welcoming to families, offering a relaxed atmosphere and varied menus.
There are several charming independent cafes dotted around Hastings Old Town, perfect for a coffee break.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the church's exterior architecture, the intricate stained glass windows, the historic churchyard, and the impressive Father Willis organ inside. 
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside, but always be respectful of services and other visitors.
Late afternoon light can be beautiful for exterior shots, while midday light can be good for capturing the stained glass details inside.
Hastings Old Town itself offers many picturesque streets and views, including All Saints Street, which is very photogenic.
A standard lens for general shots, a wide-angle lens for interiors, and a macro lens if you want to capture fine details of the stained glass or organ pipes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎶 Music Enthusiasts
🚶 History Buffs & Photographers
+1 The churchyard also offers a serene backdrop for reflective shots.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magnificent Father Willis Organ
This organ is not just a static feature; it's a vibrant part of the church's life, particularly during the summer months. The church hosts a renowned series of organ recitals every Monday evening in July and August. These concerts attract some of the finest organists from across the country, offering visitors a chance to hear the organ in its full glory.
Attending one of these recitals is a highly recommended experience for music lovers. The performances showcase a diverse repertoire, from classical masterpieces by Bach and Franck to more contemporary pieces. The enthusiastic and friendly audience adds to the special atmosphere of these musical evenings.
A Glimpse into Medieval History
One of the most captivating historical features is the centuries-old wall painting located above the chancel arch. This artwork offers a rare and fascinating glimpse into the religious art and practices of the medieval period. Its preservation is a testament to the church's continuous use and care over the centuries.
The churchyard itself is also steeped in history, providing a peaceful space to reflect on the past. It's a place where generations have been laid to rest, and its quietude allows visitors to connect with the long narrative of Hastings.
Exploring Hastings Old Town
+1Visitors can wander through streets like All Saints Street, which is particularly picturesque and often featured in photography. The Old Town retains much of its historic character, offering a delightful contrast to the more modern parts of Hastings.
+1Beyond the church, the Old Town provides a wealth of experiences, from exploring the fishing heritage to enjoying local cuisine. It’s a vibrant area that perfectly complements a visit to the historic All Saints Church.
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