Within the commercial bustle of Borella (Colombo 08), a quiet avenue leads to one of the city's most quietly compelling colonial structures. All Saints' Church stands apart from its urban surroundings — wide lawns buffer it from the traffic, twin towers mark the skyline, and the interior offers a rare stillness in a city that rarely slows down. For visitors exploring Colombo's historic core, the church is a worthwhile and often overlooked detour.
What is the history of All Saints' Church Borella?
The site has ecclesiastical roots stretching back to 1815, when a seminary occupied the land in what was then the administrative district of Hulftsdorp. As British colonial rule consolidated across the island, the original seminary was set aside and the Public Works Department commissioned a purpose-built church in its place.
Construction was completed in 1865 to a design by J. F. Churchill, who served the colonial administration as a civil engineer. The church was consecrated on 1 November 1865 — All Saints' Day — and the dedication reflects both the liturgical calendar and the building's intended role as a parish church for the city's Anglican community. In 1998, All Saints' was brought under the Ordinance of Churches Ceylon, formally integrating it into the island's independent ecclesiastical structure.
What architectural style is All Saints' Church built in?
Churchill adopted the Gothic Revival idiom that was standard for Anglican churches built across the British Empire in the mid-nineteenth century. The result is a structure that would look at home in an English market town, transplanted into the tropics. Key features include:
- Sharply pointed arches along the nave and side aisles
- A ribbed vaulted ceiling that draws the eye upward
- Twin towers topped with tall, slender spires
- Thick masonry walls that keep the interior noticeably cooler than the street outside
Despite its colonial origins, All Saints' has always functioned as a neighbourhood parish church rather than a grand civic monument — a distinction that gives it a more intimate scale than some of Colombo's other colonial-era churches.
What can you see inside All Saints' Church?
The nave is spacious and uncluttered, which makes the individual elements of the interior easy to appreciate without feeling overwhelmed. Rows of antique wooden pews — reportedly around 145 years old — line the prayer area, their timber darkened by decades of use. A decorated wooden pulpit stands at the front, and carved wooden details appear throughout the space.
Several features merit close attention:
- Stained glass windows — depicting scenes from the Bible, they filter the tropical light into muted colour across the floor and pews
- Bronze eagle lectern — a Bible stand cast in the form of an eagle, a traditional symbol in Anglican ecclesiastical metalwork
- Memorial tablets — stone tablets embedded into the walls commemorate individuals from the colonial period; several are more than a century old and offer an understated record of Colombo's British-era community
- Life-sized crucifix — the centrepiece of the chancel, a detailed and carefully wrought statue of the Crucifixion
Hymn books are kept in the pew racks, and the church maintains a welcoming atmosphere for visitors of any faith or none. The overall effect is one of quiet preservation rather than museum-like distance — this remains an active place of worship.
Is All Saints' Church used as a wedding venue?
The church is a well-regarded wedding venue in Colombo. The Gothic architecture, stained glass, and generous lawn space outside make it a popular choice for both religious ceremonies and photography. Couples planning to marry here should contact the church administration directly to confirm booking requirements and any conditions that apply to non-parishioners.
How do I get to All Saints' Church from central Colombo?
All Saints' Church is located in Borella, which corresponds to the Colombo 08 postal zone. The church sits along a relatively quiet residential avenue, set back from the main arterial roads of the district. From central Colombo (Fort or Pettah), the journey by road typically takes around 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. Tuk-tuks, metered taxis, and app-based ride services all serve the area. Street parking is available in the vicinity, though Borella can be congested during peak commuting hours.
When is the best time to visit All Saints' Church?
The church is generally open to visitors outside of scheduled services, but hours can vary. Visiting on a weekday morning tends to offer the most peaceful experience, as the church is quieter and the light through the stained glass is at its most effective in the earlier part of the day. Sunday services draw a regular congregation, so independent visitors should be mindful of service times if planning a visit on weekends. The church can be comfortably visited year-round; Colombo's climate is warm throughout, and the thick stone walls of the building provide natural shade and ventilation.
What else is worth seeing near All Saints' Church?
Borella and the adjacent Colombo districts contain several other points of historical interest within a short distance. The Colombo Lotus Tower, Sri Lanka's tallest structure, is visible from much of the city and lies within a short drive. Hulftsdorp, which borders Borella and gave its name to the colonial-era district surrounding the church, retains a concentration of colonial-period buildings including the Court Complex. A broader Colombo city tour can be organised to take in All Saints' Church alongside other heritage landmarks in a single half-day or full-day itinerary.