Church of All Saints

All Saints’ Church stands on Matlock Bank, a steep hillside in Derbyshire’s East Midlands. Built in the late 19th century, it replaced a small mission room and school opened in 1875 by Captain Augustus Arkwright. The foundation stone was laid in 1882 by Mr F.C. Arkwright of Willersley Castle, with the Bishop of Lichfield present. Designed by Thomas Henry Healey, the church opened in 1884 and was consecrated later that year by the Bishop of Southwell. Only part of the original plan was completed, with the west front added in 1958. The church is recognised for its stained glass, including an east window by Edward Burne-Jones from 1905. A series of north aisle windows were added in 1907 by Heaton, Butler and Bayne. The pipe organ, built by Forster and Andrews, was opened in 1886 by Thomas Barker Mellor. Organists have included John Goddard Barker, who later served in nearby parishes. An old sandstone tunnel, once lit by gas, still runs from the church to the Infant School. Visitors find a Grade II listed building with high vaulted ceilings and warm stonework. The Burne-Jones window fills the east end with deep reds and blues. The organ stands in a carved wooden case near the west door. The tunnel, though partly blocked, remains open for small visitors. Views stretch across the valley from the hilltop site. The church shares its parish with Holy Trinity Church in Tansley.