How many centuries do you think a church has stood on this very spot? All Saints Church in Fulham has been a landmark for over 900 years. Its story is deeply entwined with the history of London.
All Saints Church isn’t just a building. It is a testament to faith and time. We are standing close to the River Thames near Putney Bridge. This location has made it a significant site for centuries.
Let’s journey back to 1154. The first record of a church here appears in a tithe dispute. Imagine the arguments over offerings echoing through the ages. The tower construction began in 1440. It is the only surviving part of the 15th-century building. The rest of All Saints Church was rebuilt in 1880 and 1881 by Sir Arthur Blomfield. He used squared rubblestone. He added ashlar dressings and windows in the Perpendicular style.
This church has a unique connection to the bishops of London. Since the 8th century Fulham Manor belonged to them. All Saints became their parish church. Many bishops are buried here. Their presence adds a layer of solemnity to this sacred space. Among them are Humphrey Henchman who died in 1675 and Henry Compton who died in 1713. Also John Robinson who died in 1723, Edmund Gibson who died in 1748 and Thomas Sherlock who died in 1761 rest here. Thomas Hayter who died in 1762, Richard Terrick who died in 1777 and Robert Lowth who died in 1787 are buried here. Furthermore, John Randolph who died in 1813, Charles James Blomfield who died in 1857 and John Jackson who died in 1885 were buried here.
The churchyard holds other notable figures too. William John Burchell was an explorer. Sir William Butts served as physician to King Henry VIII. Alexander Marshal was a merchant and botanical illustrator. Granville Sharp who fought to abolish slavery is also buried here.
All Saints Church is situated next to Bishop’s Park overlooking the River Thames. Fulham Palace the former home of the bishops of London is nearby. The location emphasizes the close ties between church and manor. All Saints Church shares a special feature with St Mary’s Church in Putney. It is one of the only bridges in Britain to have a church at both ends.
Interestingly, All Saints Church made it onto the big screen. It was featured in the film “The Omen”. A scene shows a priest impaled by a lightning conductor. Lightning strikes the tower in the movie. In 2017 the Christmas Day service was broadcasted on BBC Television.
All Saints Church stands as a testament to time faith and community. Its walls have witnessed centuries of history. Its grounds hold the stories of bishops explorers and everyday people. As we leave take a moment to appreciate the enduring spirit of this ancient parish church.