All Saints
Billesley, Warwickshire
A light filled gem with a Shakespearean connection.
Enter through the porch of the 14th century tower, the oldest part of the building. A church has been on this site since the 12th century when it became part of Alcester Abbey.
In 1286 the Chantry of Our Lady was founded by the Botelers, on the site of the current north aisle and vestry. The south aisle and Lady Chapel was the site of the 14th century Chantry of All Saints founded by the Beauchamps. Both of these Chantries were subsequently closed by the policies of Henry VIII.
Having served as barracks during the civil wars, the nave was replaced in 1730 by this Georgian one with fine Doric columns and ceiling, to a design of Francis Smith of Warwick, of which few examples survive intact. It was furnished with a three decker pulpit obscuring an altar in a shallow apse, and box pews, galleries, and a rebuilt west gallery on the tower wall.
The present layout dates from 1871 after ‘Oxford’ revival. Galleries and box pews were removed, and apse replaced by Preedy’s Victorian gothic chancel with transepts, and an arch pierced through the ancient tower to give today’s fine aspect on entry.
In 1984 restoration of the tower began, followed by nave roof and tiled floor. Since 2001 heating and lighting have been upgraded. Restoration of stonework and fabric has also been
completed, replacing all ten nave window stone surrounds.
Pick up a tour guide for a walk round inside to view various artefacts, including the tomb of Sir Fulke Greville (grandfather of Lord Brooke buried at St Mary’s Warwick), a benefactions board with Tudor paintings depicting community welfare, and various monuments including those of the Seymour family of Ragley Hall.
There are Victorian and 20th century stained glass windows, and many other historical features. The tower contains a regularly used peal of eight bells cast in 1948 to replace an 18th century set.
Surrounding the church is its beautiful churchyard, a calm green space for the town centre. It includes a sensory garden beside the north wall, facing the ancient memorial Town Hall and other historic buildings of Alcester’s conservation area.
