All Saints Church, Kingston - Image 1
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All Saints Church Kingston

4.6
·452 reviews·, United Kingdom

Historic 12th-century church, site of Saxon king coronations, known for stunning stained glass and vibrant community cafe.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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All Saints Church, Kingston - Image 1

All Saints Church Kingston

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic 12th-century church, site of Saxon king coronations, known for stunning stained glass and vibrant community cafe.

4.6
(452 reviews)

"A genius mix that just worked and felt inclusive. It also felt so warm, like being given a big hug."

Vertical photo
TIP

☕ 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Saxon King Coronations

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

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

Community Hub & Cafe

Grounds

Experience the church as a vibrant community hub, complete with a welcoming cafe offering refreshments.

Architectural Grandeur

Architectural Grandeur

Exterior & Interior

Admire the enduring architecture of this historic parish church, standing tall since circa 1120.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds, especially if you're interested in a peaceful exploration. Check for special events like choral evensong or markets, as these can add a unique dimension to your visit but may also increase visitor numbers.

Embrace the History

All Saints Church Kingston is steeped in history, with a place of worship on site since the 12th century and Saxon kings crowned here. Allow ample time to absorb the architecture, stained glass, and the stories within its walls.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Unique experiences like choral evensong
Crowd
Medium
When
Christmas Market season
Why
Festive atmosphere and stalls
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Happy Easter Sunday this made my Friday during the solemn passion of Christ 😅. The squirrel jumped about 10-15 meters from the ceiling #eastersunday #goodfriday #cofe #allsaintskingston #kpc #kingstonuponthames #easter #squirrel #passionofchrist #choir
@alessia3011
29.1K likes • 334.1K views

☕ Visit Sarah's Cafe

Don't miss Sarah's Cafe inside the church for delicious cakes and coffee in a unique setting. Reddit+1

🔔 Hear the Bells

Listen for the historic church bells ringing, adding to the atmospheric experience. Instagram

Is there a more beautiful church in London? Well, London has such a variety of historic churches so I’m sure you aren’t all going agree with me. But personally, I find All Saints on Margaret Street to be the most beautiful church in London. This was my third time visiting and I think it gets better with each visit, as you notice more and more beautiful details each time. The High Victorian Gothi...
@greatbritisharchitecture
6.4K likes • 68.5K views
🎵 🎶 Tiffin’s choir turned up their harmonies at All Saints Church, Kingston, on Thursday afternoon for BBC Radio 3’s Choral Evensong recording. Ready to captivate hundreds of thousands of listeners, their voices were absolutely beautiful and really showcased the talent we have at Tiffin. Tune in on Wednesday 10th April at 4pm and Sunday 14th April at 3pm to hear our fantastic vocalists.🎵 🎶 @ti...
tiffinschool
124 likes • 8.3K views

📜 Explore the History

Take advantage of leaflets detailing the church's rich history and stained glass. Reddit

🐿️ Watch for Wildlife

You might spot a squirrel making an unexpected appearance, as seen during a Good Friday service! TikTokInstagram

a quick look at the acoustic Rise Against set at All Saints Church, Kingston
banquetrecords
328 likes • 29.9K views

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. Reddit+1

🔔 Hear the Bells

Listen for the historic church bells ringing, adding to the atmospheric experience. Instagram

📜 Explore the History

Take advantage of leaflets detailing the church's rich history and stained glass. Reddit

🐿️ Watch for Wildlife

You might spot a squirrel making an unexpected appearance, as seen during a Good Friday service! TikTokInstagram

🎶 Catch a Concert

Check schedules for musical performances, including choral evensong and concerts. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(452 reviews)

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

Beautiful stained glass
Rich history
Welcoming community hub

What People Dislike

Can be crowded during events

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Instagram

No, there is no admission fee for the cafe or gift shop. You are welcome to visit these areas during their operating hours. Reddit

Absolutely! All Saints Church Kingston holds regular services, including choral evensong, which are open to the public. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, the church often hosts events, markets (like Christmas markets), and recordings for radio. Keep an eye on their announcements for upcoming activities. Instagram+1

🎫 🧭 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

While official guided tours might not be regularly scheduled, volunteers are often available to share information, and historical leaflets are usually provided. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit+2

Sarah's Cafe offers refreshments, including coffee, cakes (like pistachio chocolate cake), and light bites, making it a perfect spot for a break. Reddit+1

Kingston upon Thames has a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and eateries in the Market Place and surrounding areas, offering diverse culinary choices. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior architecture, especially the entrance from the Market Place, and the interior stained glass windows are prime photography subjects. Instagram

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. Instagram

Late morning or early afternoon, when the sun is higher, often provides the best light to illuminate the stained glass windows, creating vibrant colors. Instagram

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

All Saints Church Kingston offers a welcoming environment for families. The Sarah's Cafe is a great spot for a treat, and the historical aspects, like the stories of Saxon kings, can be made engaging for children. The stained glass windows are visually stimulating, and the open space within the church and surrounding Market Place provides room to move. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For those fascinated by history, All Saints Church Kingston is a must-visit. Its claim as the coronation site for Saxon kings is a significant draw, offering a direct link to early English monarchy. Explore the 12th-century origins and the architectural evolution of the building. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

🎶 Music Lovers

All Saints Church Kingston is a renowned venue for choral music. It has hosted BBC Radio 3's Choral Evensong recordings, featuring talented choirs like Tiffin's. Instagram Keep an eye on their schedule for upcoming concerts and choral performances. Instagram The acoustics within the historic building often create a sublime listening experience. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

All Saints Church Kingston upon Thames boasts a history stretching back to the 12th century, with a continuous place of worship on its site. Its most significant historical claim is its role as the coronation site for up to seven Saxon kings. This makes it a cornerstone of English royal history, predating many other significant historical landmarks. The church's architecture reflects centuries of change and adaptation, offering a tangible connection to the past. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

The Artistry of Stained Glass

The stained glass windows of All Saints Church Kingston are a major draw for visitors, celebrated for their beauty and detail. These windows not only serve an aesthetic purpose but also act as visual storytellers, depicting biblical narratives and historical events. Many visitors rave about the quality and vibrancy of the glass, often noting the detailed leaflets available to help identify and understand each panel. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit

A Thriving Community Hub

Beyond its historical and religious significance, All Saints Church Kingston functions as a vibrant community hub. The presence of Sarah's Cafe, run by a social entrepreneur, is a testament to this. The cafe is frequently praised for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious offerings, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Reddit+2

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. InstagramReddit+1

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