St John the Baptist Church, Yaverland
St John the Baptist, Yaverland Road, Yaverland, Sandown, Isle of Wight, PO36 8QW
St John the Baptist, Yaverland, is one of the Isle of Wight’s most remarkable historic churches, standing beside Yaverland Manor and retaining much of its Norman character. Built around 1150 as a private manorial chapel, it is traditionally associated with the de Aula family, the early lords of Yaverland Manor, although the precise details of its foundation are not fully certain. The manor later passed to the Russell family through marriage, and the present manor house was rebuilt in 1620 by the Richards family. The church later developed into a parish church, with further additions in the 13th and 15th centuries reflecting its growing role in local worship. Among its most notable features are the richly stone-carved Norman south doorway and chancel arch, both fine survivals from the original building, together with later medieval windows and other details that speak to centuries of change and use. Careful restoration in the late 19th century helped preserve the church while respecting its earlier fabric, and today its Grade I listed status recognises both its architectural importance and its special place in the history of Yaverland.
St John the Baptist, Yaverland Road, Yaverland, Sandown, Isle of Wight, PO36 8QW
Access is to the church only, please note the Manor House is a private property and not part of this event and parking is limited.