Weston is a ancient settlement on the outskirts of Bath. The church has been at the heart of the village community for many years and it is believed that a church building has occupied this hillside for over 800 years.
The first Vicar was Jordanus who started his ministry here in 1297, but there is record of a church in Weston in a Bull of Pope Adrian dated 1156, however nothing remains of that early building. A later medieval church known as "All Hallows” was built in the 15th Century.
The main body of this church was demolished in 1830 leaving only the tower standing. A larger building was needed for the growing community. This new church was consecrated on the 2nd of June 1832. The Architect was John Pinch who also built St Saviour's, Larkhall, and St Mary's, Bathwick.
By 1880 the growing parish needed more seating, and the transepts and the chancel were added. This work was consecrated in 1893, and the clergy and choir vestries were added in 1909.
By using this brief guide we hope you will be able to discover some of the more interesting features of our church building:
Commence your tour in the south Aisle, where you will find the St Alphege window (1) This commemorates the famous saint whom tradition says was born in Weston [St Alphege became the Abbot of Bath Abbey and then Archbishop of Canterbury]. Also depicted is Guthram, King of the Danes, submitting to King Alfred and accepting Christianity.
In the south transept (2) is found the monument to Alderman Sherston dated 1641. He was Mayor of Bath in 1632
The war memorial chapel (3) was originally part of the south Aisle and was set apart after the 1914-18 war. The men who gave their lives in the WW2 and the Korean War are also remembered there.
From the War memorial chapel enter the Chancel (4), and high on the south wall can be seen a fine monument of the Macie family, who feature prominently in the history of Weston.
On the Reredos behind the Communion Table you will find the Ten Commandments, the Lord's Prayer and the Creed. Mrs Fraser, widow of the second bishop of Manchester, who lived in this parish, gave the carved figure of Christ above the communion table. The oak communion rails were given in memory of Mr H Trickey, churchwarden for 48 years, who died in 1909.
In a niche in the north wall of the Chancel (5) is found the oldest monument in the church from the 12-13th century. This is a stone coffin lid that was found under the south porch during the rebuilding of the church in 1830.
One of the features of the church is the number of mural tablets (between 90-100). Many record the deaths of people who have no connection with Weston beyond the fact that they were buried in the churchyard. Being a quiet and picturesque village churchyard, cut off from the city of Bath, it was a desirable burial ground for more than 200 years.
Above the Choir Vestry door (6) a tablet commemorating the gift of a Rectory to the parish in 1699 by John Harrington of Kelston.
High on the wall of the North Aisle (7) near the north transept is the monument to Dr William Oliver (of biscuit fame) whose family owned Weston Manor for many years. He is buried in the churchyard near the entrance to the choir vestry.
At the West End of the church (8) near the tower door is the 19th century font, and above this is found the list of the Vicars of Weston.
On the front of the West Gallery is the royal coat of arms of William and Mary.
The oak doors to the South Porch and the tower were erected by the congregation in memory of Mr W.S.M. Goodenough, who was churchwarden for 37years who died in 1913. Note also the Vergers stave, made in 19th Century as a beadle's stave.
The church bells have played a great part in the history of the parish. We do not know when they were originally cast but in 1739 the churchwarden's accounts tell us of their recasting in that year by Thomas Belbie at Chewstoke. These bells rang for more than 200 years with only minor repairs. In 1952 it became necessary for the bells to be retuned and rehung and two new bells were added to make the octave. These were dedicated in March 1953.
In more recent years a complete restoration of the tower has been carried out, the interior of the church has been remodelled to accommodate changing styles of worship and the building has been carpeted. We are at present working to make the building accessible to those with mobility problems and provide better cloakroom facilities for worshippers of all ages, abled & disabled. As the church has changed with the community it serves over the centuries so it will continue to change to meet the needs of the worshipping community and the parish they serve.
This is a building that is still used for the worship and life of the All Saints Weston church family. We meet every week throughout the year and would be delighted to welcome any who need a listening ear, a supportive community and a caring family. For more details do contact the Rector or Church Office or come to any of the services.
We hope you enjoy your visit to All Saints.