All Saints Church Kingston
Historic 12th-century church, site of Saxon king coronations, known for stunning stained glass and vibrant community cafe.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
All Saints Church Kingston
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 12th-century church, site of Saxon king coronations, known for stunning stained glass and vibrant community cafe.
"A genius mix that just worked and felt inclusive. It also felt so warm, like being given a big hug."
☕ Visit Sarah's Cafe
Don't miss Sarah's Cafe inside the church for delicious cakes and coffee in a unique setting.
🔔 Hear the Bells
Listen for the historic church bells ringing, adding to the atmospheric experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Saxon King Coronations
Interior
Discover the ancient site where up to seven Saxon kings were crowned, a pivotal moment in British history.

Magnificent Stained Glass
Interior
Marvel at the stunning stained glass windows, each telling a story and bathing the interior in colorful light.

Community Hub & Cafe
Grounds
Experience the church as a vibrant community hub, complete with a welcoming cafe offering refreshments.

Architectural Grandeur
Exterior & Interior
Admire the enduring architecture of this historic parish church, standing tall since circa 1120.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Embrace the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Visit Sarah's Cafe
Don't miss Sarah's Cafe inside the church for delicious cakes and coffee in a unique setting.
🔔 Hear the Bells
Listen for the historic church bells ringing, adding to the atmospheric experience.
📜 Explore the History
Take advantage of leaflets detailing the church's rich history and stained glass.
🐿️ Watch for Wildlife
You might spot a squirrel making an unexpected appearance, as seen during a Good Friday service!
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Visit Sarah's Cafe
Don't miss Sarah's Cafe inside the church for delicious cakes and coffee in a unique setting.
🔔 Hear the Bells
Listen for the historic church bells ringing, adding to the atmospheric experience.
📜 Explore the History
Take advantage of leaflets detailing the church's rich history and stained glass.
🐿️ Watch for Wildlife
You might spot a squirrel making an unexpected appearance, as seen during a Good Friday service!
🎶 Catch a Concert
Check schedules for musical performances, including choral evensong and concerts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise All Saints Church Kingston for its stunning architecture, particularly the beautiful stained glass windows, and its rich historical significance as a coronation site for Saxon kings. The church is also lauded as a warm and inclusive community hub, with a highly recommended cafe offering delicious treats in a unique setting. Some visitors note that it can get busy during special events or markets.
"My first visit to the area after a three hour train journey to complete the Bear Hunt Sculpture Trail (May 2024).
What a beautiful town to explore. There were walks along the River Thames, plenty of restaurants, cafés, and eateries.
All Saints Church is an absolute must-see, I explored from the beautiful gateway on the Market Place. Within you will find a wealth of history, beautiful architecture, and stunning stained glass. You'll also discover that this church is a real community hub, with a fabulous cafe, restaurant, and gift shop, alongside areas to take a moment, say a prayer, and support those less fortunate than ourselves. It was truly a genius mix that just worked and felt inclusive. It also felt so warm, like being given a big hug. This is often a difficult combination to achieve, such a fantastic job, Kingston.
If shopping is your thing there was a modern looking shopping centre just a short walk from the train station, as well as several well-known and independent shops around town. Lots of history too, make sure to look above some of the shop windows.
I thoroughly enjoyed my day trip and found all the Bears. Thank you for hosting a wonderful art trail, Kingston upon Thames!!"
Willow Tkw
"A lovely welcoming church. Not only is this a beautiful ancient church building with magnificent stained glass windows but there is also a fabulous cafe run by a social entrepreneur called Sarah. I recommend the pistachio chocolate cake with a a cappuccino. The church services are very welcoming and an opportunity to explore the meaning of life itself."
krish kandiah
"This time of year, it becomes everything, Christmas! Just the tonic to give you the spirit of Christmas. A mass of wooden huts, many offering hearty, and, I'm pleased to say, stonking good food! Wait till you small them, totally irresistible! Love it! Good fun, great atmosphere, free local entertainment, and yummy stools. Does what it says on the tin.. Caught the Christmas spirit, yay!"
Sue C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
All Saints Church Kingston is conveniently located in the Market Place, near the main shopping centre and a short walk from Kingston train station. It's easily accessible by public transport.
While direct parking at the church may be limited, there are several public car parks in Kingston upon Thames, including those near the shopping centre, which are a short walk away.
Yes, numerous bus routes serve Kingston town centre, bringing you within easy walking distance of All Saints Church. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient routes.
The church is generally accessible, with a welcoming atmosphere. The cafe and main areas are on the ground floor. It's advisable to contact the church directly for specific accessibility queries regarding all areas.
The nearest train station is Kingston, which is a pleasant walk through the town centre to reach the church.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to All Saints Church Kingston is generally free, as it is an active place of worship. Donations are always welcome to help with its upkeep.
The church is typically open daily, but hours can vary. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date opening times, especially if you plan to visit for specific services or events.
No, there is no admission fee for the cafe or gift shop. You are welcome to visit these areas during their operating hours.
Absolutely! All Saints Church Kingston holds regular services, including choral evensong, which are open to the public.
Yes, the church often hosts events, markets (like Christmas markets), and recordings for radio. Keep an eye on their announcements for upcoming activities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find magnificent stained glass windows, historical artifacts, and a sense of peace. It's a place to appreciate architecture and history.
Yes, the church is welcoming to families. The cafe and the historical aspects can be engaging, and the open space allows for a relaxed visit.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always respectful to be mindful of ongoing services or private events. Avoid flash photography during services.
It's the historic parish church of Kingston upon Thames, with a place of worship on site since the 12th century. It's famously known as the site where up to seven Saxon kings were crowned.
While official guided tours might not be regularly scheduled, volunteers are often available to share information, and historical leaflets are usually provided.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a wonderful cafe within the church, often referred to as Sarah's Cafe, known for its delicious cakes and coffee.
Sarah's Cafe offers refreshments, including coffee, cakes (like pistachio chocolate cake), and light bites, making it a perfect spot for a break.
Kingston upon Thames has a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and eateries in the Market Place and surrounding areas, offering diverse culinary choices.
The cafe provides refreshments and light snacks. For full meals, you would explore the numerous dining establishments in the nearby Market Place and shopping centre.
It's best to inquire directly with Sarah's Cafe about specific dietary options. They are known for being accommodating and part of a social enterprise.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior architecture, especially the entrance from the Market Place, and the interior stained glass windows are prime photography subjects.
Tripod use might be restricted, especially during services. It's advisable to check with church staff or volunteers beforehand to ensure you're following any guidelines.
Late morning or early afternoon, when the sun is higher, often provides the best light to illuminate the stained glass windows, creating vibrant colors.
Drone photography is generally not permitted over or near churches due to privacy and safety regulations. Always check local bylaws before flying a drone.
The blend of ancient architecture, historical significance, and the vibrant stained glass offers a unique photographic experience, capturing both history and beauty.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a small activity book or discussing the history in simple terms to enhance their visit. The church's role as a community hub means it often has a lively yet calm atmosphere, suitable for a family outing.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take your time to appreciate the stained glass windows, which often have accompanying leaflets detailing their stories. The church's location in the historic Market Place also provides context for Kingston's past.
🎶 Music Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Visitors can explore this rich heritage through the church's structure and the information provided. The presence of the church between the ancient Market Place and the modern shopping centre highlights Kingston's evolution while preserving its historical heart. It's a place where the echoes of ancient coronations can still be felt amidst the bustle of contemporary life.
The Artistry of Stained Glass
When the sunlight streams through these windows, it transforms the interior into a kaleidoscope of colors, creating a truly awe-inspiring atmosphere. Photographers and art enthusiasts alike find these windows captivating. The way light interacts with the glass changes throughout the day, offering a dynamic visual experience.
A Thriving Community Hub
The church also hosts various events, from markets to recordings for BBC Radio 3's Choral Evensong, showcasing its role in contemporary community life. This multifaceted approach makes All Saints Church more than just a historical building; it's a living, breathing part of Kingston upon Thames, offering a warm and inclusive experience for everyone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit