All Saints Clifton
OPEN HOUSE
One of England’s most iconic modernist churches, All Saints Clifton unites modern architecture with remnants of its original Victorian structure, which fell victim to wartime bombing.
Originally designed and built in 1868 by renowned Victorian architect GE Street, the church was one of his best and most influential buildings, before being virtually destroyed in the Second World War. The iconic rebuild by Robert Potter was opened in 1967 and innovatively incorporates some of the original work, notably the tower (now with modern spire), the St Richard Chapel and one of the finest Victorian sacristies to be found anywhere.
See the striking interior, now bathed in light and vibrant colour thanks to John Piper’s nationally significant spectacular full height windows and learn about the history of this fascinating building. A special chance to visit the Victorian sacristy and the church’s secret garden, and hear the famous ’Walker’ organ!
Key Information
- Address Pembroke Road, BS8 3ED
- Amenities
Design Information
- Built1868 and 1967
- Designed byArchitects: Robert Potter (1967) with work by VGE Street, GF Bodley, FC Eden, JL Pearson and Randoll Blacking
- Building styleModern incorporating Victorian elements
The ‘sacred space’ of All Saints has been speaking to generations since its founding in 1868 by a group of laymen led by the local postmaster. They were disquieted by the fact that there was far too little accommodation for worshipers in Clifton and hardly any room for poorer people. They also hoped for a much fuller and richer patent of worship. Distinguished Victorian architect GE Street designed the first building which stood until destruction in 1940 by WW2 bombing. Rebuilt to spectacular design in 1967 All Saints incorporates old and new and continues to live out its founding principles of openness and daily worship.