All Saints' Church, Billockby facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of All Saints, Billockby |
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The church in 2007
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| 52°39′56″N 1°35′31″E / 52.66556°N 1.59194°E | |
| OS grid reference | TG 430 136 |
| Location | Near Fleggburgh, Norfolk |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Denomination | Church of England |
| Architecture | |
| Heritage designation | Grade II |
| Designated | 25 September 1962 |
| Style | Perpendicular |
| Administration | |
| Diocese | Diocese of Norwich |
All Saints' Church is an old Christian church located near the villages of Billockby and Fleggburgh in Norfolk, England. It is part of the Church of England. This church is partly in ruins, but some parts are still used regularly.
Because of its history and special design, All Saints' Church is a Grade II listed building. This means it's a very important old building that is protected by law.
The front entrance, called the porch, and the main altar area, known as the chancel, are still in use today. Church services are held there at 9 AM on the fourth Sunday of each month, from Easter until September.
Contents
Discovering All Saints' Church History
How Old Is This Church?
All Saints' Church was built a very long time ago, in the 15th century. That means it's over 500 years old! Imagine all the history it has seen.
The Storm That Changed Everything
Sadly, a big storm hit the church on July 15, 1762. The roof of the nave, which is the main part of the church where people sit, fell down. Because of this, the nave and the church tower are now ruins.
What Does "Perpendicular Style" Mean?
The ruined parts of the church, like the nave and tower, were built in a style called "Perpendicular." This was a popular way to build churches in England during the late Middle Ages. It's known for its tall, thin windows and straight, upright lines.
What Are the Ruins Made Of?
The walls of the ruined nave are made from "knapped flint." Flint is a type of stone, and "knapped" means it has been carefully shaped by breaking it. You can still see the large windows, which once had beautiful stone patterns called "tracery."
The Chancel: Still Standing Strong
Even after the storm, the chancel, the part of the church around the altar, was still being used in 1762. It was repaired and made new again in 1872. Today, it continues to be used for services.
The chancel is also built from flint, but it has smooth, cut stones called "ashlar dressings" around the edges. Its roof is made of thatch, which is a traditional roofing material. Inside the chancel, you can find an old, eight-sided stone font from the 15th century. A font is a special basin used for baptisms.
