St John The Baptist City Parish Church, Cardiff
Cardiff’s oldest medieval church, blending historic grandeur with vibrant community spirit in the city centre.
St John The Baptist City Parish Church, located in the heart of Cardiff city centre, is one of the city’s oldest medieval buildings dating back to the 12th century. Renowned for its striking 15th-century tower and rich history, the church serves as Cardiff’s civic church and a vibrant community hub, hosting worship services, concerts, and cultural events. Its architectural highlights include the Herbert Chapel, fine stained glass windows, and a historic Father Willis organ.
A brief summary to St John The Baptist City Parish Church
- St John St, Cardiff, CF10 1GJ, GB
- +442920395231
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on a Sunday to experience the traditional Holy Eucharist service at 10am or the Evensong at 6pm.
- Explore the Herbert Chapel to see the Jacobean tomb of the Herbert brothers, a unique historical feature.
- Check the church’s event calendar for concerts and art exhibitions held regularly in the historic space.
- Look for the hidden Cyberman inside the church, a fun nod to its role in Doctor Who filming.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Several Cardiff city centre bus routes stop near St John Street, including services 1, 2, and 8. The bus journey from Cardiff Central Station takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost around £2-£3. Frequent daytime service is available, but check schedules for evenings and weekends.
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Train and Walk
From Cardiff Central railway station, it is a 15-20 minute walk to St John The Baptist Church through the city centre. The route is mostly flat and accessible, passing key landmarks like Cardiff Castle. Suitable for most visitors with moderate mobility.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Cardiff Central Station to St John Street takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Fares typically range from £5 to £8. This option is convenient for those with luggage or limited time.
St John The Baptist City Parish 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 The Baptist City Parish Church
Medieval Origins and Historical Significance
St John The Baptist Church in Cardiff stands as one of the oldest surviving medieval buildings in the city, with origins tracing back to around 1180. Originally established as a chapel of ease for the larger St Mary’s Church, it became the main parish church after St Mary’s was damaged by floods in 1607. The church witnessed significant destruction during the Welsh rebellion of 1404 when it was sacked by Owain Glyndŵr’s forces, but was rebuilt in the mid-15th century, including the construction of its iconic 130-foot tower. This tower remains a notable example of English Perpendicular Gothic architecture in Wales, crowned with delicate tracery, pinnacles, and an embattled parapet.Architectural Features and Artistic Highlights
The current structure reflects centuries of architectural evolution, with the main body dating from the 15th century and Victorian-era additions such as the north and south aisles added in 1889. The church houses several important features including the Herbert Chapel, which contains the finely sculpted Jacobean tomb of brothers Sir John and Sir William Herbert, notable historical figures. The reredos, designed by Sir William Goscombe John, and the Father Willis organ, dating from 1894, are among the church’s prized artistic treasures. Stained glass windows by renowned designers like William Morris and Ninian Comper add to the church’s visual richness.Role as Cardiff’s Civic and Cultural Hub
St John’s serves as Cardiff’s civic church, symbolized by its association with the Lord Mayor’s brass mace holder. It plays an active role in the life of the city, hosting worship services, concerts, art exhibitions, lectures, and various community events. The church welcomes around a thousand visitors weekly, including city workers, residents, and tourists. It emphasizes inclusivity and social justice, offering a spiritual home to diverse communities and engaging in outreach and civic prayer for the wellbeing of Cardiff.Community and Worship Life
The church maintains a lively schedule of services and events. Sunday worship includes a Holy Eucharist service at 10am and Evensong at 6pm, with additional midweek services and lunchtime prayers. St John’s also streams services online, extending its reach beyond the physical building. The welcoming atmosphere is reflected in the church’s open doors, inviting all to find a spiritual home within its historic walls.Notable Anecdotes and Modern Connections
Beyond its religious and historical significance, St John’s has featured in popular culture, notably as a filming location for the Doctor Who Christmas special “The Runaway Bride.” The church’s organ was used during filming, and a hidden Cyberman figure inside the church offers a quirky connection to the show. These modern touches add to the church’s unique character as a place where ancient history and contemporary culture intersect.Setting and Surroundings
Situated next to Cardiff’s Covered Market and within the city’s main shopping area, St John’s is surrounded by key landmarks including Cardiff Castle, the Principality Stadium, and Cardiff University. Its central location makes it a focal point for visitors exploring the city centre’s rich heritage and vibrant urban life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historical Wales
0.1 km
Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
Cardiff Town Wall
0.1 km
Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Fogo's Free Tours
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
John Batchelor Statue
0.2 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Nereid Statue
0.3 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
South African War Memorial
0.4 km
A poignant bronze and stone tribute in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who served in the Second Boer War, embodying peace, war, and grief.
Capitol Cardiff
0.5 km
Discover the heart of Cardiff at Capitol Cardiff, a shopping center offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and a taste of local culture.
The Gathering - Cardiff
0.5 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
City Hall
0.5 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministries Cardiff.
0.5 km
A dynamic Christian church in the Capitol Shopping Centre, offering daily worship, prayer, and community in the heart of Cardiff.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
0.6 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Bute Park
0.6 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Bute Park, Cardiff's premier urban park and a hub of culture and nature in the heart of the city.
Cardiff International Film Festival
0.7 km
Discover the Cardiff International Film Festival, where cinema comes alive through captivating screenings and inspiring workshops in the heart of Wales.
Alexandra Gardens
0.7 km
Discover the beauty and history of Alexandra Gardens in Cardiff, a peaceful retreat filled with stunning landscapes and rich cultural significance.
Wales National War Memorial
0.7 km
A solemn Gothic Revival monument in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who sacrificed their lives in both World Wars.
Unmissable attractions to see
High Street Arcade
0.1 km
A beautifully preserved Victorian shopping arcade in Cardiff’s Castle Quarter, filled with independent boutiques, vintage shops, cafés, and historic charm.
The Cardiff Market
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff Market’s vibrant Victorian charm, where fresh local produce and unique stalls create a lively city-centre shopping experience.
Cardiff Market
0.1 km
A bustling Victorian indoor market in Cardiff city centre, alive with fresh produce, street food, vintage finds and local character under a grand glass roof.
Museum of Cardiff
0.1 km
Explore Welsh art, natural history, and archaeology in Cardiff’s grand historic museum with free admission and rich cultural treasures.
Rummer Tavern
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and rich local culture at Rummer Tavern, a must-visit pub in the heart of Cardiff.
Aneurin Bevan Statue by Robert Thomas (1987)
0.1 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Cardiff to Aneurin Bevan, visionary founder of the NHS, sculpted by Robert Thomas in 1987.
8 St Mary St
0.1 km
Historic Victorian commercial site in Cardiff’s Castle Quarter, blending rich heritage with vibrant city life.
St David's Hall
0.1 km
Experience world-class acoustics and bold brutalist design at Cardiff’s iconic St David’s Hall, a vibrant cultural landmark in the city centre.
Blue Bell
0.2 km
Discover the charm of The Blue Bell, Cardiff's premier pub for traditional food, local ales, and a warm atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Castle Quarter Arcades
0.2 km
Explore Cardiff’s historic Castle Quarter Arcades—Victorian charm, independent shops, and vibrant dining in the city’s heart.
Firing Line Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier
0.2 km
Discover the rich military heritage of Wales beneath Cardiff Castle in this immersive museum dedicated to the Welsh soldier.
Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Castle
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff Castle, a majestic blend of Roman roots, Norman strength, and Victorian splendor in the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital.
St David’s Dewi Sant
0.2 km
Cardiff’s largest shopping centre with over 160 shops, dining, and entertainment all under one roof in the city centre.
Morgan Arcade
0.2 km
Step into Morgan Arcade, Cardiff’s enchanting Victorian shopping arcade where historic charm meets modern boutiques and cozy cafes.
Cardiff Castle
0.3 km
Discover nearly 2,000 years of history and stunning architecture at Cardiff Castle, the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital city.
Essential places to dine
The Botanist Cardiff
0.0 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cardiff city centre where botanical décor, creative cocktails, and live music bloom together.
Dirty gnocchi (Cardiff Market)
0.0 km
Savor authentic Italian gnocchi and pasta delights in the vibrant heart of Cardiff Market, where tradition meets street food charm.
Cafe Citta
0.1 km
Cozy Italian eatery in Cardiff city center serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and pasta in an intimate, stylish setting.
Pasture Restaurant Cardiff
0.1 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and vibrant atmosphere at Pasture, Cardiff’s celebrated destination for premium meat dining.
The Alchemist Cardiff
0.1 km
Experience the magic of mixology at The Alchemist Cardiff, where innovative cocktails meet exquisite dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
Turtle Bay Cardiff
0.1 km
Caribbean soul meets Welsh hospitality—bold jerk, tropical cocktails, and island warmth in Cardiff city centre.
The Welsh House Cardiff
0.1 km
Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
The Potted Pig
0.1 km
A stylish underground eatery in Cardiff serving seasonal Welsh-inspired modern British cuisine in a unique former bank vault setting.
Asador 44 Spanish Grill & Wine House
0.2 km
Authentic Spanish charcoal grilling and fine wines in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Lezzet Turkish Kitchen
0.2 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with vibrant flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
Maison de Bœuf
0.2 km
An intimate French steakhouse in Cardiff’s Castle Arcade, blending Parisian charm with live jazz and signature cuisine.
Casanova
0.2 km
A long-standing Cardiff trattoria serving authentic regional Italian food with warm service and an excellent all-Italian wine list.
Cosy Club
0.2 km
Chic British dining and all-day drinks in Cardiff’s St David’s Dewi Sant, blending timeless glamour with a welcoming atmosphere.
Gaucho Cardiff
0.2 km
Savor premium Argentine steaks and vibrant South American flavors in Cardiff’s sleek, modern steakhouse at St Davids Centre.
Bar 44 Cardiff
0.2 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in Cardiff's vibrant Castle Quarter.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Little Welsh Company
0.0 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
Hobos Vintage
0.1 km
A vibrant Cardiff vintage shop packed with retro fashion, trainers, and accessories from the 1950s to today – perfect for throwback style and bargain finds.
Knight Vintage
0.1 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
Mojo King
0.1 km
Discover smart, affordable Mod and Northern Soul-inspired men's fashion at Mojo King, a unique gem in Cardiff Indoor Market.
The Works
0.1 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Cardiff Creative Shop
0.1 km
Handcrafted Welsh wonders from 45+ local artisans await in Queens Arcade's creative gem—unique gifts that sparkle with personality and heritage.
Great Welsh Gifts
0.1 km
Unearth authentic Welsh crafts, treats, and treasures on Cardiff's High Street—a delightful dive into Cymru's cultural heart at Great Welsh Gifts.
Rokit Cardiff
0.1 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Rokit Cardiff, where retro charm meets eco-conscious shopping in the heart of the city.
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
0.2 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and personalized lovespoons opposite Cardiff Castle at Castle Welsh Crafts.
Flying Tiger
0.2 km
Discover quirky Scandinavian gifts and creative everyday essentials at Flying Tiger in Cardiff’s St David's Centre.
Urban Outfitters
0.2 km
Curated lifestyle retail celebrating creativity, fashion, and cultural expression in Cardiff's city centre.
Morgan Quarter
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
Beyond Retro Cardiff
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
Sobeys Vintage Clothing
0.3 km
Discover unique reworked vintage fashion in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at Sobeys Vintage Clothing, where creativity meets sustainability.
Welcome Things
0.3 km
Discover whimsical treasures in Cardiff's historic Royal Arcade at this eclectic gift shop, where unique Welsh-inspired finds meet global curiosities in Victorian splendor.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Flight Club Cardiff
0.1 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant city nightlife at Flight Club Cardiff’s unique multi-level bar and rooftop terrace.
Rum & Fizz
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff’s rum haven with over 200 rums, crafted cocktails, cozy elegance, and live jazz every Friday in Castle Arcade.
Penny
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff’s intimate cocktail haven with innovative drinks, expert bartenders, and a stylish, welcoming atmosphere at Penny.
The Libertine Cocktail Bar
0.1 km
A stylish Cardiff cocktail bar blending gothic charm with expertly crafted drinks and a lively city center vibe.
Glassworks
0.2 km
Lively Cardiff pub pouring Greene King ales, serving pub classics, and screening sports in the heart of the city center—perfect for meals, pints, and pre-event vibes.
Main Stage
0.2 km
Cardiff's vibrant gay bar and cabaret club with lively drag shows, DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
0.2 km
Cardiff’s lively hotspot for live music, affordable eats, and vibrant nightlife until 4am every day.
Revolution Cardiff
0.2 km
A multi‑level cocktail bar and late‑night club opposite Cardiff Castle, built for groups, events and colourful cocktail theatre.
Tiny Rebel Cardiff
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff’s vibrant craft beer scene and lively pub culture at Tiny Rebel, a hub for award-winning brews and eclectic events.
The Bootlegger
0.2 km
A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
Slug & Lettuce - The Friary Cardiff
0.2 km
A lively, multi-level cocktail bar and casual-restaurant on The Friary — made for groups, brunch and evening drinks in central Cardiff.
Mary's Cardiff
0.3 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant nightlife at Mary’s, a lively bar and nightclub blending modern lounge vibes with energetic party spirit.
Slug & Lettuce - St Mary St Cardiff
0.3 km
Vibrant Cardiff cocktail bar on St Mary Street, famed for bottomless brunches, creative mixes, and lively nights in the city heart.
Boom Battle Bar Cardiff
0.3 km
Cardiff’s ultimate bar for games, street food, cocktails, and late-night fun in a lively, interactive setting.
Yates - Cardiff
0.3 km
Lively sports bar and nightclub in Cardiff city centre with unbeatable sports coverage, great drinks, and a unique dancing doorman.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
For Your Eyes Only
0.1 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Metros
0.2 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
Clwb Ifor Bach
0.2 km
Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
Popworld - Cardiff
0.2 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Fuel Rock Club
0.2 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
The CUBE
0.3 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
0.3 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
0.3 km
Cardiff's largest nightclub ignites Greyfriars Road with 1,500-capacity energy, state-of-the-art production across themed rooms, and epic nights from club beats to private spectacles.
Pulse
0.4 km
A city-centre LGBTQ+-friendly bar that becomes a neon-lit nightclub after dark, blending casual daytime dining with late-night DJs and themed club nights.
The Globe
1.8 km
A compact Grade II-listed former cinema turned lively live-music venue and nightclub, famed for intimate gigs and energetic club nights on Albany Road.
The Vaults
1.9 km
Dive into Cardiff’s iconic underground club housed in a historic former bank, where techno beats and vibrant nightlife come alive beneath the city streets.
Cabaret at Wales Millennium Centre
2.1 km
Dive into Cardiff Bay's sizzling hub of drag, burlesque, comedy, and live music at Cabaret – where inclusive performances sparkle with pop culture magic and high-energy fun.
Coco Cubanas
11.6 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
Bar Cocoa
11.6 km
Experience Barry’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Bar Cocoa, a lively nightclub where music and dancing keep the party going until the early morning.
Eclipse Nightclub
15.8 km
Experience Pontypridd’s vibrant midweek nightlife at Eclipse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community come alive every Wednesday night.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
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
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
