St John's Church, Bristol: A Medieval Jewel Built into the City Walls
Discover Bristol’s only surviving medieval city wall church, a historic sanctuary rising above the city gate on Broad Street.
St John's Church, also known as St John on the Wall, is a remarkable medieval church integrated into Bristol's 14th-century city walls. It is the sole survivor of five such churches that once guarded the city gates, serving as both defensive structures and spiritual havens for travellers. The church features a striking embattled tower over the city gate, a vaulted crypt with rich medieval monuments, and fine 17th-century interior fittings. Preserved by the Churches Conservation Trust, it remains open for visitors to explore its historic and architectural significance.
A brief summary to St John's Church
- Broad St, Bristol, BS1 2EZ, GB
- +441179291766
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 11 am-2 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit the crypt to see medieval tombs and the beautifully ribbed vaulted ceiling with decorative bosses.
- Look for the statues of Brennus and Bellinus on the Broad Street side of the tower, representing Bristol’s legendary founders.
- Explore the 17th-century pews and the intricately carved communion table inside the church.
- Note the medieval conduit fountain built into the north wall, once supplying water to the city and friary.
- Check opening times before visiting, as the church is managed by the Churches Conservation Trust and may have limited hours.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Bus
Take local bus services from Bristol city centre to Broad Street, with a journey time of approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, and a single ticket costs around £2.50. The stop is within a short walk to the church entrance. Note that service frequency may reduce on weekends.
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Train and Walk
Arrive at Bristol Temple Meads railway station, then walk approximately 20 minutes (1.5 km) to Broad Street where St John's Church is located. The route is mostly flat but includes some cobbled streets. The walk offers views of central Bristol landmarks.
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Car
Drive to Broad Street, Bristol, where metered parking is available nearby. Parking can be limited during peak hours, and city centre car parks are within a 5-10 minute walk. Expect to pay around £3-£5 per hour. The area has narrow streets and may be busy during events.
St John's Church location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St John's Church
A Unique Medieval Structure Embedded in Bristol's Defences
St John's Church is a rare architectural gem, uniquely built into Bristol's medieval city walls during the 14th century. It is the only remaining church of five that once stood as both spiritual sanctuaries and defensive bastions along the Saxon inner town wall. The church sits directly above the arched city gate on Broad Street, with a spectacular embattled tower that once housed a portcullis operated from the room above. This tower, dating from the late 14th century, is a defining feature of Bristol’s cityscape. Two statues on the Broad Street side depict Brennus and Bellinus, legendary founders of Bristol, adding to the church’s rich historic symbolism.Historical Layers and Architectural Evolution
Evidence suggests a church has existed on this site since at least 1174, with the current structure largely dating from the 14th and 15th centuries. The church was rebuilt and modified over centuries, including significant 19th-century alterations. The vaulted crypt beneath the church, dedicated to the Holy Cross and associated with the medieval Guild of the Holy Cross, is notably ornate, featuring ribbed ceilings and decorative bosses. This crypt served as a prestigious burial place, housing alabaster tombs of merchants and their families, underscoring Bristol’s medieval wealth and mercantile importance.Interior Splendour and Artistic Heritage
Inside, the church impresses with its tall, graceful proportions and fine fittings predominantly from the 17th century. The six-bay aisleless nave, shaped by its integration into the town wall, creates a long, narrow worship space with a short chancel. Noteworthy features include early 17th-century pews, a superb communion table dated 1635 with intricate carvings, and remnants of medieval wall paintings. The chancel houses the monument of Walter Frampton, a thrice mayor of Bristol, whose effigy rests on a heraldic tombchest.Water and Ritual: The Historic Conduit and Crypt Access
Built into the north wall of the church is a fountain fed by a medieval conduit that once supplied water to the Carmelite Friary and the city. Legend holds that during elections, this conduit occasionally ran with wine, reflecting the church’s role in civic life. The crypt entrance is accessed from the north side, originally outside the city wall, contrasting with the main church entrance on Broad Street. The crypt’s 19th-century reordering added bays and levelled the floor, preserving its historical significance while adapting it for modern visitors.Conservation and Visitor Experience
Since 1985, St John's Church has been under the care of the Churches Conservation Trust, ensuring its preservation as a heritage site. Unlike other redundant churches in Bristol, it remains open to visitors, offering a glimpse into medieval urban life and architecture. The church’s location on Broad Street places it in the heart of Bristol’s vibrant city centre, with nearby landmarks including the Grand Hotel and the Guildhall. Visitors can explore both the atmospheric upper church and the evocative crypt, experiencing a unique fusion of history, architecture, and legend.Legacy and Cultural Significance
St John's Church stands as a testament to Bristol’s medieval prosperity, civic pride, and architectural ingenuity. It embodies the city’s layered history—from its defensive origins to its role as a place of worship and community gathering. The church’s enduring presence, integrated into the urban fabric, invites reflection on the passage of time and the preservation of cultural heritage in a modern city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Nails
0.2 km
Historic iron nails in Bristol’s Corn Street where medieval merchants sealed their deals, embodying the city’s rich trading heritage.
Old Post Office
0.2 km
Discover Bristol’s 18th-century Old Post Office, a preserved Georgian landmark blending rich history with vibrant city life at Corn Street.
St Mary Le Port Church
0.3 km
Historic Saxon-era church ruins in Bristol’s Castle Park, a poignant landmark of medieval heritage and wartime resilience.
Medieval Vaults
0.3 km
Explore Bristol’s hidden medieval cellars beneath High Street, where Gothic vaults tell tales of centuries past beneath the city’s modern bustle.
Statue of Edmund Burke
0.3 km
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
Old City Walls
0.3 km
Trace the vanished medieval walls that shaped Bristol’s historic Old City, revealing centuries of rich heritage and urban evolution.
Bristol Bridge
0.4 km
A historic stone bridge spanning Bristol’s Floating Harbour, linking the Old City with Redcliffe and centuries of the city’s story.
Fermentation Buildings
0.4 km
Grade II-listed former brewery warehouses reborn as a creative office and waterfront dining hub on Bristol’s Floating Harbour.
Historic England - Bristol Office
0.4 km
Discover Bristol's rich history and heritage at the Historic England office, a key player in preserving the city's architectural treasures.
Cascade Steps
0.4 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime heritage.
Royal Talbot Buildings
0.5 km
Discover the Royal Talbot Buildings in Redcliffe, Bristol: A luxurious executive suite experience perfect for your city escape.
Bristol Castle
0.5 km
Discover the historic heart of Bristol at Castle Park, where medieval ruins meet serene urban green space along the scenic Welsh Back waterfront.
King George V Memorial Fountain
0.5 km
Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
Bristol Aquarium
0.6 km
Discover the enchanting underwater world at Bristol Aquarium, where marine life thrives in captivating exhibits and interactive experiences for all ages.
Wills Memorial Building Tower
0.7 km
Climb Bristol's iconic 68-metre tower for breathtaking city views and explore a masterpiece of Neo-Gothic architecture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre
0.0 km
Explore Palestinian heritage and culture at Bristol’s vibrant Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre, a hub for history, art, and community events.
The Christmas Steps
0.1 km
Step back in time on Bristol’s historic Christmas Steps, a charming medieval street rich in culture, history, and cozy local character.
The Lanes
0.1 km
Bristol’s ultimate destination for boutique bowling, live music, karaoke, and great pizza in a lively, vibrant setting.
Christmas Steps
0.2 km
Discover Bristol’s enchanting Christmas Steps, a historic cobbled lane blending medieval charm with vibrant arts and rich local stories.
Alcotraz Bristol: Cell Block Two-Two-Six
0.2 km
Discover the immersive cocktail experience at Alcotraz Bristol, where every drink tells a story in a unique prison-themed setting.
Cosy Club
0.2 km
Historic elegance meets vibrant British dining in a stunning former banking hall at the heart of Bristol’s Old City.
St Nicholas Market
0.2 km
Discover Bristol’s historic St Nicholas Market, a lively hub of independent shops, artisan crafts, and global street food in a charming Georgian arcade.
Bristol Beacon
0.3 km
Bristol Beacon: Where historic charm meets vibrant live music and cultural celebration in the heart of Bristol.
St James' Priory
0.3 km
Explore Bristol’s oldest building, a Norman priory with nearly 900 years of history and stunning medieval architecture.
Bristol city centre
0.3 km
The vibrant heart of Bristol, blending rich history, culture, shopping, and scenic waterfront charm in a lively urban setting.
The Red Lodge Museum
0.3 km
Step behind a red door into a 16th-century Tudor lodge and discover 400 years of Bristol’s history, from merchant grandeur to Victorian reform, in a free, atmospheric city-centre museum.
The Centre
0.4 km
The Centre, Bristol: where history, transport, and culture converge in a vibrant urban open space.
St Peter's Church
0.4 km
Explore the rich history and architectural beauty of St Peter's Church, a beloved landmark in Castle Park, Bristol, steeped in centuries of heritage.
John Wesley's New Room
0.4 km
Step into the world’s oldest Methodist chapel, where faith, history and social justice meet in the heart of Bristol.
Round Pool
0.4 km
Discover Castle Park’s blend of medieval ruins, peaceful gardens, and vibrant community spirit in the heart of Bristol city centre.
Essential places to dine
Harbour Kitchen & Bar
0.2 km
Stylish seafood dining with British seaside soul in the heart of Bristol’s vibrant Corn Street.
The Ox
0.2 km
Charcoal-grilled steaks in an atmospheric basement vault with cocktails and old-money elegance.
San Carlo - Bristol
0.2 km
Elegant Italian dining in Bristol with sumptuous seafood, grand interiors, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for special occasions.
Four Wise Monkeys
0.2 km
Lively pan-Asian fusion dining with retro Tokyo vibes and bold flavours in Bristol’s city centre.
Mugshot Restaurants Bristol
0.2 km
Experience 1920s vintage glamour and interactive hot stone steak dining in the heart of Bristol’s historic old town.
Pasta Ripiena
0.3 km
A tiny Bristol gem where every bite of handmade stuffed pasta bursts with seasonal Italian flavour.
Bambalan
0.3 km
Vibrant Mediterranean dining with rooftop views, lively DJs, and a spirited social scene in the heart of Bristol.
Marmo Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.3 km
Michelin-recognized Italian cooking with organic wines in Bristol's vibrant restaurant quarter.
Pieminister
0.4 km
Award-winning British pies, piled high with mash, peas and gravy, in a lively harbourside restaurant with views of Bristol’s fountains and waterfront.
Turtle Bay Bristol Broad Quay
0.4 km
Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine, tropical cocktails, and lively reggae vibes in Bristol’s vibrant Broad Quay district.
Aqua Welshback
0.4 km
Stylish Italian-inspired dining with seasonal British flair on Bristol’s scenic Welsh Back harbourside.
Hat Bistro
0.4 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and warm hospitality at Hat Bistro, Bristol’s cozy Mediterranean gem with locally sourced flavors.
Ciao Amici Restaurant
0.4 km
Authentic Italian dining with handmade pizzas and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of Bristol’s cultural scene.
Three Brothers Burgers
0.5 km
Waterfront burgers of genuine quality in Bristol's vibrant harbourside district.
No.1 Harbourside
0.5 km
Bristol's independent waterside gem serving bold burgers, local drinks, and genuine hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Blaze
0.2 km
Unique gifts and artisanal treasures in Bristol's creative heart—perfect for discovering one-of-a-kind souvenirs on Colston Street.
Urban Fox
0.2 km
Unearth retro gems at Urban Fox, Bristol's vintage clothing nook in vibrant St Nicholas Market—quality finds with 25 years of expertise.
Memories
0.2 km
Explore 'Memories' in Bristol for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of your visit.
Quadrant Trading
0.2 km
Discover handcrafted Bristol treasures at Quadrant Trading in the historic Corn Exchange—a shopper's delight of local artistry and unique souvenirs.
Japonicat
0.2 km
Discover unique Japanese gifts and charming collectibles at Japonicat, nestled in Bristol’s historic St Nicholas Market.
uchi clothing co
0.2 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion in Bristol’s historic Corn Exchange at Uchi Clothing Co, where quality meets contemporary design.
Riff Raff Gifts The Bong Shop
0.2 km
Specialist smoking accessories retailer in historic St Nicholas Market's Covered Market.
This Feeling
0.3 km
Trendy threads in Bristol's historic market heart—independent fashion amid Georgian charm and bustling stalls.
Over Here
0.3 km
Discover quirky gifts and stylish clothing at Over Here, a hidden gem in Bristol's historic St Nicholas Markets arcade.
The Ethical Gift Shop
0.4 km
Discover Bristol’s charming boutique for sustainable, fair-trade gifts and eco-friendly treasures in the heart of Broadmead.
Garmden of Eden
0.4 km
A Bristol vintage clothing gem where retro style meets sustainable fashion in a welcoming, independent shop on Union Street.
Everything one pound shop
0.4 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a vibrant shopping experience at Everything One Pound Shop in Bristol’s The Galleries.
Prior Shop - Cabot Circus (Independent Superstore)
0.5 km
Bristol's award-winning ethical design hub showcasing 150+ independent makers in a gallery, workshop, and community space.
Wild Thing
0.5 km
An independent Bristol boutique for alternative, festival and dopamine fashion with an ethical heart.
Alices Secret Empourium
0.5 km
Uncover Bristol's quirk-filled gift haven on Park Street, where eclectic treasures and whimsical wonders await every curious explorer.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Milk Thistle
0.1 km
Bristol's multi-level speakeasy masterpiece: inventive cocktails, taxidermy charm, and intimate lounges in a historic townhouse—pure nightlife alchemy.
Blame Gloria - Bristol
0.1 km
Dive into Bristol’s wildest retro cocktail bar with themed brunches, dazzling performances, and a party atmosphere like no other.
The Gold Bar
0.2 km
Experience Bristol’s ultimate speakeasy-style cocktail bar with opulent décor, masterful mixology, and vibrant weekend entertainment.
Dirty Martini - Bristol
0.2 km
Bristol's dazzling cocktail bar on Corn Street, blending royal elegance, masterful martinis, bottomless brunches, and electric nights in the heart of Old City.
Flight Club Bristol
0.2 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant cocktails in Bristol’s lively, carnival-inspired cocktail bar on historic Corn Street.
The Cocktail Club - Corn Street Bristol
0.2 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife with expertly crafted cocktails, galactic-themed interiors, and an unforgettable party atmosphere at The Cocktail Club Corn Street.
The Rummer
0.2 km
A cozy, spirit-focused pub in the medieval heart of Bristol—fireside rooms, hundreds of gins and a distilled approach to cocktails.
Secret Cocktail Club - Bristol
0.2 km
Discover Bristol’s hidden basement bar blending historic charm with expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, secretive setting.
Slug & Lettuce - City Centre Bristol
0.2 km
Bristol's go-to cocktail haven on St Nicholas Street, blending lush drinks, tasty bites, and vibrant nights in the Old City heart.
Brozen Bar - Bristol
0.3 km
Discover Bristol’s Brozen Bar, where inventive frozen cocktails and a cosy atmosphere create a unique, must-visit cocktail experience.
The Clockwork Rose
0.3 km
Bristol's steampunk speakeasy where airship captain's cocktails blend Victorian flair, fantastical lore, and masterful mixology into unforgettable evenings.
The Boardroom
0.3 km
Grazing boards, rum mastery and historic charm in Bristol's Old City—perfect for intimate drinks or private hires till late.
Revolution Bristol
0.3 km
Two-storey cocktail bar in Bristol’s Old Fish Market — colourful interiors, mezzanine balcony and cocktails for day and night.
The Mothers' Ruin
0.3 km
Bristol's dive bar legend: cheap pints, basement beats, live tunes, and pizza in a historic street nook – pure debauchery awaits.
The Library Bristol
0.3 km
Bristol's enchanting chameleon: vintage tea parlour by day, exclusive cocktail lounge by night—where elegance meets mixology in a hidden urban gem.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Bristol
0.3 km
Dance to 90s and 00s pop anthems under neon lights at Bristol's ultimate nostalgic nightclub, where cheesy hits and POPTAIL cocktails fuel epic nights out.
Forró Bristol
0.3 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Basement 45
0.5 km
Experience Bristol’s underground nightlife at Basement 45, where eclectic music, intimate vibes, and vibrant events come alive until the early hours.
Queenshilling - Bristol Bar and Nightclub
0.5 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
Silk Nightclub
0.5 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
Antix
0.5 km
Bristol's enduring late-night haven on Park Street: cocktails till 1am, DJ beats till 6am, dancing into dawn with house, R&B, and reggaeton vibes.
OMG
0.5 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
0.6 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
PRYZM
0.7 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
Lakota
0.7 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
Thekla
0.8 km
A converted cargo ship transformed into Bristol’s compact, industrial live-music venue and late-night club, famed for close-up shows and throbbing club nights.
Bristol Lola Lo
0.8 km
An intimate, vintage‑Tiki nightclub in Clifton with neon cocktails, paper lanterns and a compact dancefloor for themed late‑night parties.
The Pearl NightClub
0.8 km
Bristol's intimate Clifton nightclub where fire DJs ignite weekend dance floors from 10pm till dawn—pure energy in a compact, electric space.
La Rocca
0.9 km
A lively Clifton nightclub blending classic tunes, affordable drinks, and a vibrant social scene in Bristol’s dynamic nightlife district.
Lizard Lounge
0.9 km
A small, loud student nightclub on Queens Road famed for cheap drinks, DJ nights and a packed, party-first atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
