All Saints’ Church, Ryde

This beautiful church, designed by Sir Gilbert Scott in the 1870s, stands on a cliff above the Solent. It was constructed with gothic ornamental style and has a rich choral history, as well as a “Father Willis” organ and a ring of eight bells, earning it the nickname “cathedral” of the Island. The Church of England’s traditional faith is honoured with solemn liturgy.

Originating from the older parish of Newchurch, Ryde, All Saints’ was the town’s final Victorian Church of English parish. Therefore, the enormous landmark church became emblematic of its time.The church served as a landmark for sailors because of its excellent vantage point over the city and the Solent. The church was dedicated in 1872, and its tower and spire were finished in 1882. Construction began in 1870.

Beautiful marble columns support the pulpit, which is carved from Derbyshire Alabaster. It debuted in 1852 at the Great Exhibition and took home the gold medal for its category. On Ascension Day, June 23rd, 1886, Archdeacon Sumner consecrated a beautiful ring of eight bells cast by John Taylor & Company of Lougborough. The tower and spire that houses them is 186 feet tall.

• https://www.rydeallsaints.org.uk