The striking silhouette of Brixworth Church is visible when approaching the Northamptonshire village from the north.
David NikelEver heard of Brixworth, England? If you said no, you’re not alone. When you think of England’s historic landmarks, places like the Tower of London, Stonehenge, or Westminster Abbey probably come to mind.
But tucked away in the heart of the English countryside lies a lesser-known site of importance.
Located in Northamptonshire, about 70 miles north of London, Brixworth Church is one of the largest and oldest surviving Anglo-Saxon churches in England, offering a rare glimpse into England’s ancient past without hoardes of tourists.
Introducing Brixworth Church
Brixworth Church, officially known as All Saints’ Church, was constructed around 200 to 300 years after the Romans left Britain.
That means this remarkable building has been standing since the 7th or 8th century, long before the Norman Conquest or even the establishment of the Kingdom of England as we know it today.
For history buffs or curious travelers alike, this makes Brixworth a unique window into a time when the country was still divided into Anglo-Saxon kingdoms.
What’s even more fascinating is that some of the original architectural features are still intact.
You can walk around and explore parts of the building that date back over a thousand years, including the main nave, the lower part of the tower, and the sunken ambulatory crypt—an architectural feature that once surrounded the church’s apse—a semicircular recess behind the altar.
Brixworth Church’s Anglo-Saxon Roots
While much of the church has been modified over time, what remains of its original structure is a treasure trove for those interested in Anglo-Saxon history.
Interior of Brixworth Church in Northamptonshire, England.
David NikelBrixworth was once part of the Kingdom of Mercia, a powerful Anglo-Saxon territory. Its size and prominence suggest that this wasn’t just a small parish church, but likely a significant religious center for the surrounding area.
Interestingly, some of the materials used in the construction of Brixworth Church were recycled from nearby Roman ruins. This mix of Roman influence with early English architecture makes Brixworth a symbol of England’s complex history, standing at the crossroads between two great eras.
The Tower And Later Additions
One of the first things you’ll notice when approaching the church is the impressive tower that dominates the skyline. However, this tower wasn’t part of the original Anglo-Saxon design.
Early English churches didn’t have towers like this. It was added much later, in the 11th century, and topped with a tall spire during the 14th century. The round stair turret built into the tower is one of only four remaining in England, making it a rare architectural feature despite its more recent age.
The combination of Anglo-Saxon, Norman, and later Gothic elements in the tower exemplifies the church’s long history and the various cultural influences it has absorbed over the centuries.
Inside Brixworth Church
The choir, or presbytery—the heart of the church—is separated from the nave by a large arch. Much of this area was rebuilt during the 19th century, but it still rests on the original Anglo-Saxon foundations.
In fact, much of the church’s interior has been carefully restored to honor its historical significance while preserving as many original features as possible.
Archaeological excavations revealed that the church was once larger, with several side chambers, known as porticus, which significantly expanded the building's size.
The entrance to Brixworth Church.
David NikelThese have since been lost to time, but their outlines can still be traced along the church’s structure.
If you’re interested in how England’s oldest churches were constructed, Brixworth offers a rare opportunity to see firsthand how architecture evolved over the centuries.
A Story Of Restoration
While Brixworth’s original design remains a focal point, the church owes much of its survival to the work of Reverend Charles Watkins, who spearheaded its restoration in the 19th century.
At the time, it was common for churches to be modernized in ways that weren’t always faithful to their historical roots.
Watkins did his best to preserve Brixworth’s Anglo-Saxon heritage, but it can still be tricky for historians to determine where the original design ends and where the 19th-century restoration begins.
Despite these challenges, Brixworth remains one of the best-preserved examples of early English Christian architecture. For visitors, this means that a visit to the church is not only a journey into Anglo-Saxon England but also an exploration of how the past was perceived and preserved by later generations.
The church is open daily to visitors 9am-5pm (10am-4pm winter) unless private services or events are taking place. However, it’s best to make contact in advance if you’re planning a special trip. Regular church services take place at 10.30am on Sundays.
There is history to be seen all over Brixworth in Northamptonshire, England.
David NikelPaper guides can be purchased upon arrival, with an honor system for payment.
Brixworth: A Heritage Village
The church is the centerpiece of a village that’s packed with history. There is evidence of Iron Age dwelling in the south and a Roman Villa in the north.
Created by the local history society, Brixworth Heritage Trail is a mile-long walk through the village that takes in 30 historic buildings, including the church. Blue plaques adorn each building listing their stories.
Brixworth boasts a variety of charming pubs, including two former coaching inns that harken back to the days of horse-drawn transport. The Coach and Horses is renowned for its real ales and food—ranging from simple bar food to a lavish restaurant menu.
Try the Brixworth pâté to appreciate why this rich chicken liver paste is so highly regarded in Northamptonshire and beyond.
