St John's House Museum, Warwick
Explore nearly 900 years of Warwick’s heritage at St John's House, a Jacobean mansion blending history, education, and military legacy.
St John's House in Warwick is a historic Jacobean mansion with nearly 900 years of history, originally a medieval hospital. It has served as a private residence, school, and museum, now hosting educational activities and the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers Museum. The Grade I listed sandstone building offers a glimpse into local heritage through its preserved rooms and exhibits.
A brief summary to St John's House
- St Johns, Warwick, CV34 4NF, GB
- +441926412069
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Pre-book visits as the museum is primarily open to school groups and pre-arranged parties.
- Explore the recreated Victorian classroom and kitchen for immersive historical experiences.
- Visit the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers Museum on the first floor for local military history.
- Check availability for special events like weddings or paranormal tours hosted at the venue.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
-
Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus services 55 or 56 from Warwick town center to the St Johns area; the journey typically takes 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day but check schedules for weekends and holidays. A single fare costs approximately £2.50.
-
Taxi
A taxi ride from Warwick town center to St John's House takes around 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Taxis are readily available in Warwick, with fares typically ranging from £6 to £10.
-
Walking
For those staying nearby, walking from Warwick town center to St John's House takes about 25-30 minutes over mostly flat terrain along public sidewalks. The route is accessible and suitable for most visitors.
St John's House location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about St John's House
Origins and Medieval Beginnings
St John's House traces its roots back to the mid to late 1100s when it was established as a sprawling medieval hospital on the eastern edge of Warwick. Its primary function was to provide shelter and refreshments to travellers as well as care for the local poor and unwell. The location was strategic, serving as a welcoming roadside stop in medieval times. Following the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 1530s under King Henry VIII, the property was granted to Anthony Stoughton, a servant of Queen Katherine Howard, marking the start of its transition from religious to private ownership.Transformation into a Family Residence
The Stoughton family rebuilt the house multiple times, with significant reconstruction around 1667 by Nathaniel Stoughton, a High Sheriff of Warwickshire. The present Jacobean mansion reflects this 17th-century design, constructed from locally quarried Warwick stone. The house's layout distinguished the grand family rooms on the ground and first floors from the servants’ quarters in the attic, visible by their smaller windows. The house remained in the family until it was sold in 1788.Educational and Military Uses
From 1791, St John's House was repurposed as a school, educating boys and girls in traditional subjects such as reading, writing, and arithmetic. The school operated until 1900 when it closed due to bankruptcy. In the 20th century, the building served various roles including a War Department record office. Later, it became part of the Warwickshire Museum service, opening as a museum in 1960 to showcase social history, costume, and local heritage.Museum and Cultural Significance Today
Today, St John's House is a Grade I listed building that welcomes thousands of visitors annually, primarily school groups for educational activities. The museum features a recreated Victorian classroom, a kitchen, and displays of toys, games, and costumes, offering immersive insights into childhood and learning in past centuries. The first floor houses the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers Museum, presenting military history and personal stories of local soldiers.Architectural and Historical Highlights
The mansion’s Jacobean architecture, with its sandstone construction and historical layout, stands as a testament to Warwick’s heritage. The house’s gardens and proximity to St Nicholas’ Park enhance its historic charm. Its use for events such as weddings and paranormal investigations adds to its unique character, blending history with contemporary cultural activities.Preservation and Community Role
Managed by Warwickshire County Council, St John's House remains a vital educational and cultural venue. Its preservation as a heritage site ensures the continuation of Warwick’s rich history, providing a tangible link to the past for both local communities and visitors. The house’s ongoing use for learning and events helps maintain its relevance in the modern era.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Randolph Turpin Statue
0.7 km
Celebrate the legacy of British boxing champion Randolph Turpin with this striking bronze statue in Warwick’s historic Market Square.
Shakespeare & Company Holiday Home
13.1 km
Discover the enchanting Shakespeare & Company Holiday Home in Stratford-upon-Avon, where history and comfort blend seamlessly for an unforgettable stay.
Tramway Bridge
13.1 km
Historic 1826 red brick pedestrian bridge over the River Avon, blending industrial heritage with tranquil riverside views in Stratford-upon-Avon.
The Countess of Evesham
13.2 km
Indulge in traditional British cuisine at The Countess of Evesham, a charming restaurant on the waterside in Stratford-upon-Avon, surrounded by natural beauty.
Stratford Waterside Market
13.2 km
Discover unique artisan treasures and vibrant street food in Stratford-upon-Avon's charming riverside market.
Stratford upon Avon
13.2 km
Historic market town on the River Avon, birthplace of Shakespeare, blending timeless Tudor charm with vibrant cultural life and scenic riverside beauty.
The Shakespeare Birthplace Shop
13.2 km
Discover the essence of Shakespeare's legacy at The Shakespeare Birthplace Shop, a unique gift shop in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Statue Of Shakespeare Stratford-upon-Avon
13.2 km
A bronze tribute to the Bard in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, where literature and history come alive on Henley Street.
Royal Shakespeare Theatre
13.3 km
Discover the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, where the legacy of Shakespeare comes to life through captivating performances and stunning architecture.
Magic Alley
13.3 km
Discover the magic and folklore at Magic Alley, a whimsical attraction in Stratford-upon-Avon that brings stories to life in enchanting displays.
Stratford Upon Avon Bandstand
13.3 km
Historic bandstand in Stratford-upon-Avon offering free summer concerts and a vibrant community atmosphere in a scenic park setting.
Sinister Stratford
13.3 km
Explore the darker side of Stratford-upon-Avon with Sinister Stratford's captivating tours of haunted history and folklore.
Garrick
13.3 km
Step into Stratford-upon-Avon's oldest pub, where medieval charm meets hearty fare and centuries of captivating history.
Stratford-upon-Avon Town Hall
13.4 km
Elegant Palladian landmark in Stratford-upon-Avon, blending rich history, Shakespearean heritage, and civic tradition since 1767.
Stratford-upon-Avon Town Council
13.4 km
Explore Stratford-upon-Avon and its rich heritage at the Town Council, your gateway to local culture and events in Shakespeare's hometown.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Nicholas' Park, Warwick
0.3 km
A historic riverside park in central Warwick offering gardens, sports, and family-friendly leisure in a tranquil natural setting.
Warwick
0.3 km
Discover Warwick’s timeless medieval castle, charming historic streets, and tranquil river setting in the heart of Warwickshire.
Warwick East Gate Victorian Type PB1 Postbox
0.3 km
Discover Warwick’s charming Victorian cast iron postbox, a vibrant red relic of 19th-century British postal heritage still in use beside East Gate clock tower.
Warwick Castle Main Entrance
0.5 km
Step into over 1,100 years of history at Warwick Castle, where medieval grandeur meets immersive live entertainment and scenic grounds.
The Castle Dungeon
0.5 km
Step into Warwick Castle’s dark past with The Castle Dungeon, a spine-chilling immersive journey through plague, torture, and medieval terror.
Warwick Antiques Centre
0.5 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm at Warwick Antiques Centre, a historic marketplace in the heart of Warwick.
Warwickshire Yeomanry Museum
0.5 km
Explore the rich history of the Warwickshire Yeomanry cavalry regiment in the historic Georgian Court House of Warwick.
St Mary’s Church
0.5 km
Discover St Mary’s Church, Warwick: a historic collegiate church blending medieval grandeur with post-fire Gothic revival in the heart of Warwick.
Time Tower
0.6 km
Step inside the Time Tower at Warwick Castle for an immersive journey through centuries of history with captivating audiovisual storytelling and stunning views.
Market Hall Museum, Warwick
0.7 km
Discover Warwickshire’s rich history in a 17th-century landmark with fossils, Roman treasures, and a live beehive at Market Hall Museum.
Market Pl
0.7 km
Discover Warwick Market’s vibrant Saturday stalls in the historic Market Place, where fresh local produce and unique crafts come alive every week.
The Weird Walk of Warwick
0.7 km
Explore centuries of military history and medieval charm at the Lord Leycester Hospital’s Weird Walk of Warwick, a unique living heritage site.
The Lord Leycester
0.7 km
Step into a living medieval masterpiece where Tudor history breathes through centuries-old timber walls and enduring traditions.
The Rose & Crown
0.8 km
Historic Warwick gastropub and inn offering seasonal cuisine, fine ales, and cozy accommodation in the heart of Market Place.
Warwick Castle
0.8 km
Discover over 1,100 years of history, thrilling live shows, and breathtaking views at Warwick Castle, one of Britain’s finest medieval fortresses.
Essential places to dine
The Aubergine Turkish Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with vibrant flavors and warm ambiance in the heart of historic Warwick.
Aqua Food & Mood Lebanese Restaurant
0.5 km
Authentic Lebanese flavors and warm hospitality combine in Warwick’s cozy Mediterranean gem.
Giggling Squid - Warwick
0.6 km
Vibrant Thai tapas and bold flavours in Warwick’s historic High Street, with a welcoming atmosphere and dedicated vegan options.
La Mesa
0.6 km
Experience intimate Spanish-Mediterranean fusion dining in Warwick’s historic Old Square with exquisite five-course menus and warm hospitality.
7 Square Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience refined French-inspired cuisine and unique artistic ambiance in the heart of Warwick’s historic Old Square.
The Art Kitchen
0.7 km
Experience vibrant Thai cuisine in Warwick’s dynamic art gallery setting, where fresh flavors meet contemporary creativity.
Tasca Dali
0.7 km
Experience authentic Spanish flavors with a surprise 5-course tasting menu in the heart of Warwick’s Market Place.
The Globe
0.8 km
Historic Warwick pub and hotel offering Mediterranean-inspired dining, cozy rooms, and a lively yet welcoming atmosphere in the town center.
Saxon Mill Warwick
2.0 km
Historic riverside gastropub in Warwick blending traditional mill charm with modern British cuisine and scenic views.
The Moorings at Myton
2.2 km
A charming canal-side gastropub in Royal Leamington Spa, serving locally sourced English classics in a family- and dog-friendly setting.
The Star & Garter
2.8 km
A stylish gastropub in Leamington Spa blending traditional charm with modern dining and lively social vibes.
Habano Restaurant & Wine Bar
3.1 km
A vibrant Pan-Latin dining experience with fresh Cuban and Spanish flavors, friendly service, and a lively wine bar in the heart of Leamington Spa.
La Coppola Ristorante & Oyster Bar
3.2 km
Authentic Italian and seafood dining in an elegant, welcoming setting at the heart of Leamington Spa’s Parade.
Giggling Squid - Leamington Spa
3.2 km
Experience vibrant Thai flavors and stylish sharing plates in the heart of Leamington Spa’s Royal Priors Shopping Centre.
Côte Leamington Spa
3.2 km
Experience modern French cuisine and warm brasserie charm in the heart of Leamington Spa’s historic town centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cloud 9
0.2 km
Discover handcrafted fair trade treasures at Cloud 9, Warwick’s boutique for ethical gifts and global artisan crafts.
Browsers
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and charming keepsakes in the heart of historic Warwick at Browsers, your cozy local gift shop on Smith Street.
Trinkets & Treasures Ltd
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and charming homewares in Warwick’s welcoming boutique, perfect for every special occasion.
Present Days
0.6 km
Discover unique local crafts and charming gifts at Present Days, Warwick’s beloved boutique gift shop on historic Swan Street.
NV Her
0.7 km
Discover unique, sophisticated ladies’ fashion with a raw edge at NV Her, Warwick’s independent boutique in Market Place.
BeHoptimystic
0.7 km
Discover an eclectic mix of unique collectibles and rare treasures in the heart of Warwick’s historic Market Place.
The Shop at Market Hall
0.7 km
Explore The Shop at Market Hall for handcrafted treasures and local gifts that capture the heart of Warwick, England.
The Original Factory Shop (Warwick)
0.8 km
Discover unbeatable bargains on fashion, beauty, and home essentials in the heart of Warwick’s historic Market Place.
Leamington Shopping Park
2.1 km
Discover a vibrant shopping destination with free parking, top brands, and a welcoming open-air environment in the heart of Royal Leamington Spa.
Stone The Crows
3.1 km
Discover quirky gifts and stylish homeware at Stone The Crows, a beloved Leamington Spa boutique known for unique finds and excellent service.
Lilac Rose
3.1 km
Discover unique British fashion and accessories at Lilac Rose, Leamington Spa’s vibrant independent boutique with a curated, colourful collection.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
3.2 km
Discover quirky gifts, creative homewares, and joyful party supplies at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Leamington Spa’s vibrant town centre.
Cotswold Trading - Leamington Spa
3.2 km
Discover stylish homewares and unique gifts at Cotswold Trading, Leamington Spa’s award-winning destination for curated, quirky collections.
Royal Priors Shopping Centre
3.2 km
Leamington Spa’s premier indoor shopping centre with spacious malls, diverse stores, and convenient access in the town’s historic heart.
Revolve
3.3 km
Discover exclusive ladies’ fashion and wedding wear with personalized service at Revolve, Leamington Spa’s stylish boutique on Warwick Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Black Pug
0.3 km
A historic Tudor pub in Warwick offering quirky charm, great drinks, dog-friendly warmth, and a lively beer garden atmosphere.
The Wild Boar
0.5 km
A cozy Warwick pub blending traditional charm, hearty British fare, and well-kept real ales in a welcoming atmosphere.
Ronnie's of Warwick
0.5 km
Eclectic bar in Warwick blending retro style, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere with a welcoming garden space.
The Old Coffee Tavern
0.6 km
Charming historic pub and boutique hotel in Warwick’s Old Square, blending cosy style, excellent food, and comfortable rooms in a central location.
That Gin & Cocktail Bar (That Gin Company)
0.6 km
Discover Warwick’s premier gin destination, blending bold handcrafted flavors with a cozy, inviting cocktail bar experience.
Tilted Wig
0.7 km
Historic gastropub and cozy inn in Warwick’s Market Place, blending traditional charm with modern British cuisine and welcoming accommodation.
The Eagle
0.7 km
A cozy, quirky cellar micro pub in Warwick serving expertly curated real ales and craft beers in an intimate, friendly atmosphere.
Rigsby's Cellar Bar
0.7 km
Cozy cellar charm meets heartfelt hospitality in Warwick’s intimate and quirky Rigsby's Cellar Bar.
The Castle Inn
1.1 km
A historic Warwick pub with quirky charm, lively entertainment, and a welcoming beer garden for locals and visitors alike.
The Fat Pug
2.4 km
Quirky and welcoming gastro pub in Leamington Spa serving hearty British dishes and lively drinks in a vibrant, eclectic setting.
Unicorn
2.5 km
A warm, family-friendly pub in Warwick offering excellent British fare, accommodating service, and a welcoming local atmosphere.
Fizzy Moon Brewhouse & Grill
3.0 km
Eclectic brewhouse and grill in Leamington Spa offering craft beers, hearty pub fare, and a uniquely stylish atmosphere.
Bedford Street Bar
3.1 km
Lively grill and bar venue in Leamington Spa offering live jazz, classic British dishes, and a vibrant social atmosphere with heated outdoor seating.
The White Horse
3.1 km
A charming blend of historic character and modern comfort, The White Horse offers classic British pub fare and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Leamington Spa.
The Boiler Room
3.2 km
An independent, quirky craft beer bar in Leamington Spa with artisan ales, lively music, and a cozy, intimate vibe.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Educational
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Educational
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
