All Saints Church, Norwich

All Saints' Church in Norwich is a Grade I listed former parish church with a rich history and a striking architectural heritage. This medieval church, now redundant, reflects Norwich's ecclesiastical past while embracing modern adaptive reuse.

The chancel, dating to the 13th century, is one of the oldest parts of the church. The 15th-century additions of the nave, north aisle, and the un-buttressed tower highlight the evolution of its Gothic style. Extensive 19th-century repairs to the tower, culminating in the addition of a top stage in 1913, underscore the ongoing care it received over the centuries.

A unique feature of All Saints is its Anchorhold, designed for religious hermits who lived secluded lives. Historical records from 1287–1288 suggest some controversy around the anchoress or her servants engaging in trade, defying the era's religious regulations.

After the church's closure in 1973, its carved font was moved to Saint Julian’s Church, and the Norwich Historic Churches Trust took over, making repairs. From 1979, it operated as the All Saints Centre, offering community support and Christian hospitality under Jo Cook, with added facilities like a kitchen and upper-floor room. Closed in 2015, it became the All Saints Antiques Centre and Tea Room, still active as of 2021.

Despite a fire caused by arson in 1992, the church's resilience shone through with substantial cleaning and redecoration efforts. It remains a focal point for bell ringers, with a gallery installed at the tower’s base for practice sessions, including monthly use by the Norwich Diocesan Association of Ringers.

Adding to its historical charm, the church's organ, crafted in 1861 by the Corps, contributes to its legacy as a place of music and worship. Today, All Saints' Church stands as a testament to Norwich's ability to blend historic preservation with adaptive reuse, offering a window into the city’s past while serving its present community in new ways.