Knaresborough/Community/Churches/Church of St John the Baptist
Church of St John the Baptist

Church of St John the Baptist

Discover the magnificent Church of St John the Baptist, a historic gem in Knaresborough featuring stunning stained glass and a serene atmosphere.

About

The Church of St John the Baptist is a truly stunning and impressive medieval church nestled in the charming market town of Knaresborough. Boasting a remarkable 4.6/5 star Google rating, visitors frequently praise its grandeur, beautiful architecture, and peaceful ambiance. Located close to the viaduct, this historic site features magnificent stained glass, including rare works by renowned 19th-century firms Clayton and Bell and Burne-Jones.

Inside, you'll discover an intricate font cover, a side chapel housing a tomb, statues, and various wall-mounted memorials that speak to centuries of history. The church is clearly very well looked after and preserved, offering a serene space for quiet contemplation and appreciation of its artistic and historical treasures. Outside, the churchyard pathways are uniquely created by many laid-flat headstones.

Visiting Information

The Church of St John the Baptist is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, and on Sundays from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Please note it is closed on Saturdays. The church offers excellent accessibility, featuring wheelchair-accessible parking, an accessible entrance, and wheelchair-accessible restrooms, ensuring a comfortable visit for all. While climbing up from the Riverside can be steep, the reward is a truly memorable experience.

4.6

from 88 reviews

Google Reviews

Reviews from Google Maps.

Showing 5 of 88 reviews from Google Maps.Last updated 2 February 2026.

Anonymous
4/5
2 weeks ago

Large impressive church,beautiful stained glass and an intricate font cover. In the side chapel there is a tomb,statues and wall mounted memorials. Outside many headstones are laid flat creating pathways around the churchyard. Located close to the viaduct,a bit of a steep climb up from the Riverside.

Anonymous
5/5
4 months ago

Beautiful large medieval church with rare stained glass by two of the best firms of the 19th century: Clayton and Bell (west window) and Burne-Jones (of Morris and Co). It is said that the original medieval scheme had a Saint Robert of Knaresborough narrative window. I wish I had a Time Machine just to be able to go back in time and see it! The volunteers working there were very welcoming and informative. A must see place in Knaresborough.

Anonymous
5/5
6 months ago

This is an absolutely stunning church - we were both surprised and impressed by its grandeur. It is clearly very well looked after and preserved. A lovely and peaceful space which we were glad to have discovered during our afternoon in Knaresborough.

Anonymous
5/5
2 months ago

The Parish Church of St John the Baptist is a Grade I listed medieval church in Knaresborough, with parts dating back to the 12th century. It is located on Church Lane, near the castle and overlooking the River Nidd. The church is open daily for public worship and private prayer. The church is open daily for visitors from early morning to late afternoon. Specific weekday hours are generally 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with extended hours until 4:00 p.m. on Sundays.

Anonymous
5/5
a month ago

A very nice church. Had some festivities happening when we were there. A Xmas tree display with 95 different trees. They were also selling drinks and snacks.

Location

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📍 Vicarage Ln, Knaresborough HG5 9AE, UK

Details

Address

Vicarage Ln, Knaresborough HG5 9AE, UK

Opening Hours

Monday: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Source: Google