St John The Evangelist's Church, Bath
A soaring Victorian Gothic Catholic church with Bath’s tallest spire, blending rich history, stunning architecture, and peaceful sanctuary in the heart of Bath.
St John The Evangelist's Church is a striking Victorian Gothic Catholic church located on South Parade in Bath, England. Designed by Charles Francis Hansom and completed in 1863, it features a soaring 222-foot spire—the tallest in Bath—crafted from local Bath stone. The church is renowned for its richly detailed interior, colorful stained glass, and historical significance, including surviving damage during World War II. It remains an active place of worship and a peaceful sanctuary within Bath's vibrant cityscape.
A brief summary to St John The Evangelist's Church
- The Old School House, St John's Rd, S Parade, Bath, BA2 4AF, GB
- +441225464471
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday evenings on Monday or Tuesday when the church is open later until 7pm for a quieter experience.
- Take time to admire the intricate stained glass windows and the detailed marble pillars inside the church.
- Look up to spot the peregrine falcons nesting on the spire, a unique natural feature of the church.
- Respect the church’s role as an active place of worship by maintaining silence and appropriate behavior during your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the First Bus service 5 or 10 from Bath city centre towards Bathwick or Lansdown; journey time is approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day. The stop nearest to the church is on South Parade, a short walk from the church entrance. Single fare costs around £2.50 GBP.
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Taxi
A taxi from Bath city centre to St John The Evangelist's Church typically takes 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Expect to pay between £5 and £8 GBP. Taxis are readily available at the city centre taxi ranks or via phone apps.
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Walking
From Bath city centre, walking to the church takes about 25-30 minutes along mostly flat terrain via public streets. The route passes through historic parts of Bath, suitable for most fitness levels and wheelchair accessible.
St John The Evangelist's Church location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St John The Evangelist's Church
Architectural Grandeur and Design Legacy
St John The Evangelist's Church stands as a magnificent example of Victorian Gothic architecture, designed by Charles Francis Hansom and completed between 1861 and 1863. Its most prominent feature is the soaring spire, added in 1867, which reaches approximately 222 feet (68 meters), making it the tallest structure in Bath and a defining element of the city's skyline. The church is constructed entirely from local Bath stone, lending it a harmonious connection to the surrounding historic cityscape. Inside, the church boasts circular pink granite pillars with intricately carved capitals, vibrant stained glass windows—especially the renowned rose windows—and finely crafted ironwork, including communion rails and screens. The baptistery, designed by Hansom's son Edward Joseph Hansom in 1871, houses a shrine containing relics of Saint Justina of Padua, adding to the church's spiritual and artistic significance.Historical Roots and Resilience
The church was built on a site with deep religious roots, originally associated with a medieval priory and later developed by the Benedictine monks from Downside Abbey. The Benedictines managed the parish until 1932, when care was transferred to the Diocese of Clifton. St John’s has endured significant trials, notably during the Baedeker raids of World War II in April 1942, when the south aisle was destroyed and the presbytery was hit by a direct bomb strike, resulting in tragic loss of life. Both the damaged sections were sympathetically rebuilt in the 1950s, preserving the Gothic style and maintaining the church’s architectural integrity. This resilience underscores the church’s role as a spiritual and community anchor throughout Bath’s modern history.Spiritual Significance and Community Role
Dedicated to St John the Evangelist, one of Jesus’s twelve apostles and the author of the Gospel of John, the church serves as a vibrant center of Catholic worship in Bath. It offers a peaceful sanctuary amid the city’s bustling environment, welcoming parishioners and visitors alike. The church’s rich liturgical life is complemented by its role as a cultural landmark, hosting religious ceremonies, community events, and serving as a symbol of faith continuity in the region. Its history reflects the broader narrative of Catholic emancipation and growth in England during the 19th and 20th centuries.Setting and Surroundings
Situated on South Parade in the Bathwick area, the church is part of a conservation zone within the World Heritage Site of Bath. The location offers picturesque views along the River Avon and proximity to other historic landmarks. The church’s stone tower and spire create an iconic silhouette visible from many vantage points across the city. Nearby, the Old School House and other Victorian-era buildings contribute to the area's rich architectural tapestry, blending religious, educational, and residential heritage.Artistic Highlights and Interior Details
Inside, visitors are greeted by a harmonious blend of color and craftsmanship. The stained glass windows flood the interior with vibrant light, while the polished marble and delicate wood and iron screens add layers of texture and detail. The church’s chapels each feature unique decorative elements, inviting quiet reflection. The white tabernacle stands out as a focal point, symbolizing purity and devotion. These artistic features combine to create an atmosphere of reverence and beauty that enhances the spiritual experience.Continuing Legacy and Preservation
St John The Evangelist’s Church remains an active parish, cared for by the Diocese of Clifton. Its ongoing preservation ensures that this architectural and spiritual treasure continues to inspire future generations. The church’s blend of historical significance, architectural excellence, and community vitality makes it a must-visit landmark in Bath, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich religious heritage and Victorian craftsmanship.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Victorian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Skyline
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
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
