St Lawrence Church, Ipswich

The upper section of the tower was rebuilt in 1882 by the London firm of Barnes and Gaye.

The new Victorian design consists of floral and geometric flintwork patterns and includes the initials S. and L. Unusually, the modifications also removed the central aisle from the nave in an attempt to prevent celebration of the High Anglican liturgy.

After deliberations over future usage and subsequent extensive renovations, the church was reopened as a community restaurant and gallery in July 2008.

The £1.2 million cost of the restorations came from Ipswich Borough Council and UK government grants.

According to the IHCT, the next oldest set of five are located in St Bartholomew the Great and date from 1500.