All Saints Church is the parish church for the village of Gussage All Saints in Dorset. It's a Grade I listed building with a long and layered architectural history, primarily reflecting the Early English and Decorated Gothic styles.
Medieval Origins: The church's main body, including the nave and chancel, dates largely to the early 14th century. The walls are constructed from a mix of local flint, rubble, and various types of stone, including Shaftesbury Sandstone and Heathstone.
The Tower: The impressive west tower was built in several stages. Its lower part dates to the 14th century, while the upper stages and embattled parapet were added in the 15th century. The tower is particularly distinctive for its use of alternating bands of flint and ashlar stone.
Victorian Restoration: Like many English churches, All Saints underwent a significant Victorian restoration. In 1864, architect Ewan Christian carried out extensive work. A notable change from this period was the moving of the original medieval chancel arch to the north wall, where it now frames the organ. A new chancel arch was then built by the architect John Hicks, who was a mentor to the famous novelist Thomas Hardy.