Church of All Saints, Martock, Grade I listed church in Martock, England
The Church of All Saints is a Grade I listed church in Martock featuring a substantial tower dating from 1505 with corner buttresses extending the full height. The nave and chancel display typical English parish church architecture with windows from various periods.
The site was in existence before 1156, and in 1227 it was acquired by the Treasurer of Wells Cathedral who became its rector and patron. During the English Civil War in July 1645, parliamentary troops used the building as military quarters, resulting in damage and loss of religious statuary.
The interior holds a preserved Jacobean altar table that was restored and reinstated as the High Altar in 1921 after serving as a vestry table. This restoration reflects how the community reestablished its religious practices following earlier disruptions.
The building sits on Church Street in Martock and is accessible to visitors throughout the week with regular services held. It is advisable to check opening times in advance to ensure the interior can be viewed.
Few visitors know that a Jacobean altar table served as an ordinary vestry table for centuries before restorers recognized its true purpose. This overlooked object reveals how religious artworks were repurposed or hidden during turbulent periods.
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