St John The Evangelist's Church, located in Bath, is a Victorian church built in the late 19th century. Renowned for its striking architecture, the building features intricate stained glass windows and beautiful stonework. The church serves not only as a place of worship but also as a community hub, hosting various events and activities throughout the year. Its serene setting and historic significance make it a noteworthy site for visitors exploring Bath's rich cultural heritage.
What each source says
- Google 4.8 358
- Tripadvisor 4.5 66
Bar length is review volume, so you can see how much weight sits behind each score. Captured 2026-08-26.
What visitors single out
Liked
- Beautiful Interior The church boasts a stunning and ornate interior, featuring a high altar, beautiful stained glass windows, and impressive architecture that leaves visitors in awe.
- Convenient Location Situated near the train station and River Avon, the church is easily accessible and a worthwhile stop for travelers arriving in Bath.
- Historical Significance The church has a rich history, including its rebuilding after being bombed in WWII, and contains interesting historical exhibits.
- Peaceful Atmosphere Visitors can find a quiet and sacred space for prayer and reflection, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
- Welcoming Community The church is known for its vibrant, engaging, and diverse congregation, with a friendly and welcoming parish priest.
Criticised
- Car Park Eyesore The presence of an 'ugly' car park detracts from the church's external aesthetics.
- Not Always Open The church doors may be closed to visitors at times, making access unpredictable.
- Not the Main Attraction It may be overshadowed by Bath Abbey, and some may miss it.
- Possible Construction Street work and repair may cause difficulty getting to the church.
- Slightly Off Beaten Track Although close to the city center, it may be considered slightly off the main tourist routes.
The longer read
St John The Evangelist's Church in Bath is highly recommended for its stunning interior, beautiful architecture, and peaceful atmosphere. Located near the train station and the River Avon, it is easily accessible and offers a haven from the bustling city. Many reviewers were struck by the church's ornate interior, including its high altar, stained glass windows, and the Pieta statue. The church's spire is the tallest in Bath and dominates the city's skyline. Visitors describe the church as a hidden gem and a place of peace and solace. Several reviewers mentioned attending mass and finding the congregation welcoming and the priest engaging. The church is noted for its vibrant and diverse community. The building itself has an interesting history, including being bombed during World War II and subsequently rebuilt in a similar Gothic style. Information panels inside recount the history of the church and its rebuilding. Some reviewers mentioned the church's rood screen and pulpit as being particularly noteworthy. Others appreciated the availability of blessed water and religious items for purchase. The church is often open to visitors and is free to enter. Some reviewers stumbled upon the church by accident and were pleasantly surprised by its beauty. Others have made it their regular parish church and highly recommend it to others. The church's location makes it a convenient stop for those arriving in Bath by train. The church's interior is described as warm and inviting, unlike some churches that struggle to heat. The church offers a space for prayer and reflection, away from the noise and crowds of the city. The church's architecture is described as a beautiful example of Victorian design in a largely Georgian city. The church's atmosphere is described as atmospheric and thought-provoking, especially during services. The church is well-maintained and guides are available to assist visitors. Some reviewers recommend visiting during the evening Sunday mass to see the church at its best in the evening sunshine.
A synthesis of published third-party reviews. Not written by Breaks.
Getting there
- Phone
- +44 1225 464471
- Website
- stjohnsrcbath.org.uk
| Mon | 7:30 - 19:00 |
|---|---|
| Tue | 7:30 - 19:00 |
| Wed | 7:30 - 17:00 |
| Thu | 7:30 - 17:00 |
| Fri | 7:30 - 17:00 |
| Sat | 8:00 - 18:45 |
| Sun | 8:30 - 20:00 |
Against the neighbourhood
Rated 4.8 against a median of 4.6 across the 52 venues we hold for Bath, where the most-reviewed is The Roman Baths.
Still deciding?
- What are the opening hours and any seasonal variations for St John the Evangelist's Church in Bath?
- Which stained glass windows are considered highlights and what stories do they depict in St John the Evangelist's Church?
- What community events or activities are regularly hosted at St John the Evangelist's Church that visitors can attend?
- Is St John the Evangelist's Church wheelchair accessible and are there any facilities for visitors with mobility needs?
- How does St John the Evangelist's Church reflect Victorian architecture and its role in Bath's cultural heritage?
What this page cannot tell you
- Descriptions and review summaries are supplied by the source index and are reproduced as published; they are not independently verified by Breaks.
- Ratings and review counts are point-in-time snapshots and drift constantly. Check the venue's own site or the rating provider for the current figure.
- Opening hours change seasonally and at short notice. Confirm with the venue before travelling.
- Category labels come from the source index and are occasionally wrong — a venue may be filed under a type that does not match how it trades.
- Straight-line distances understate real walking distance, especially where a river or railway sits between two points.