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The Heart of a Peak District Community
Bakewell
If there is any one building that stands out
among all the rest, it's Bakewell's Parish Church of All Saints. This
incredible building displays architecture from two very important
British historical eras, those of the Saxon period and that following
the Norman invasion. Many parts of this church are over a thousand
years old and despite that it was rebuilt in 1110, it subsequently
underwent further rebuilding between 1826 and 1841.
In 1826 the tower's pillars had become weakened and in need of
replacement. In 1841 the tower, along with the north and south
transepts, along with the Vernon chapel were taken down and
subsequently rebuilt. During the restoration work, they made sure that
the original design of the church was adhered to. At this time, four
stained-glass windows were added to the south end, and with the
addition of new seating, the pulpit, reading desk and the organ were
rearranged, all at some considerable expense for the time.
 Saxon Cross Bakewell, All Saints Church |
 Saxon Cross Bakewell, All Saints Church |
When they excavated the foundations, a number of saxon remains were discovered which can now be seen inside the south porch. Among its remains are coffin lids, gravestones, parts of crosses and a quantity of other highly decorative pieces.
 Ancient Tombstones in South Porch |
 Saxon Cross Pieces in South Porch |
Gate on Church Lane
Fine Norman Architecture
View across the Wye Valley
From it crowning position on the western side of the town, the grounds of the parish church of All Saints offer the visitor the most wonderful of views across the town itself, and the valley of the Wye as it wends its way towards Haddon.