Features / history
The church that holds centuries of secrets
It was once among the four principal gateways into the medieval walled city of Bristol, but now is the only one remaining.
St John the Baptist Church – also known as St John on the Wall – is the same width as the wall on which it was built, with evidence still of a portcullis that once managed the flow of pedestrians, wagons and carriages in and out of Bristol.
On December 4, there will be a rare opportunity to enjoy a candlelit carol service in the church at the end of Broad Street.
Starting at 6pm, all donations will go towards the upkeep of St John on the Wall through the Churches Conservation Trust, with mulled wine and mince pies served in the crypt after the service.
St John on the Wall was founded on the site of an earlier 12th century church – photo: Martin Booth
Bristol merchant and mayor, Walter Frampton, funded the building of St John on the Wall in around 1350 on the site of an earlier 12th century church.
It remains one of Bristol’s least altered medieval churches but its interior was originally much more decorated.
The church’s location close to the River Frome meant that it was a place where prayers were said to guarantee a safe passage as well as welcoming notable visitors into the city.
St John the Baptist Church welcomed the congregation of St Mary-le-Port when that church was bombed in the Blitz – photo: Martin Booth
The last service at St John on the Wall Church was held in 1984 but it remains a medieval time capsule, now cared for by volunteers from the Churches Conservation Trust.
Discover more about St John on the Wall on a walking tour of the Old City and Castle Park with Martin Booth: www.yuup.co/experiences/explore-bristol-s-quirkiest-corners
An exhibition of paintings by Peter Lyons is taking place in the crypt until December 5 – photo: Martin Booth
The church’s original entrance and a former portcullis can still be glimpsed if you know where to look – photo: Martin Booth
Main photo: Martin Booth
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