2025 Festival: Discover St John's, Lancaster

Consecrated in 1755, with a distinctive Neoclassical tower and spire added in 1784, St John’s was built by and for the expanding merchant community of Lancaster, at a time when Trans-Atlantic trade - including trade in enslaved people - brought prosperity and growth to the city. It was built near to the Lune-side docks, which connected Lancaster to the Atlantic and thence to Africa, the Americas and the Caribbean, and known locally as ‘t’owd fish church’ for its fish-shaped weathervane and maritime associations.

Come and take a look at the surviving Georgian interior, including the altar rail, box pews, galleries and 1780s organ casing, the latter by the renowned Gillow’s of Lancaster, cabinet-makers, donated by local MP Abraham Rawlinson. Later alterations, including a porch and side chapel, are sensitive to the character resulting in an austere but coherent aesthetic. Set behind tall railings in its overgrown churchyard, this is one of Lancashire’s hidden treasures.

Our volunteers will be on hand to highlight what makes this church truly special, and how the use of the church has changed throughout it's life.

Timings & Tours

Saturday 13 September:

11am - 1pm

Saturday 20 September:

11am - 1pm

Location & directions

Church of St John the Evangelist, North Road, Lancaster, Lancashire, LA1 1PA

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

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