St John the Evangelist Church, Merrow

The first church on the site was built in the 12th Century and over the years it grew and then fell into disrepair until by 1840 it was in a ruinous state. An anonymous donation enabled the church to be rebuilt, largely to its 14th century design, by the famous architect RC Hussey. With a major extension in the 1880’s, the shape of the building emerged essentially as we see it today. Considerable elements of the original, period architectural detail remains today including the vaulted roof with structural timber beams, original, stone mullioned, stained glass windows, stone arches and large supporting columns.

The Friends of St John’s, a group which raises funds for special projects connected with the upkeep of the site, will be hosting an open weekend as part of this year’s HOD events, offering an opportunity to explore parts of the church not usually open to the public with local guides, including a demonstration of the recently-restored 1881 William Hill & Son pipe organ.

Visitors will be able to climb the bell tower's spiral staircase up to the ringing chamber for a behind the scenes view of the original 1843 clock, to see how the bells are rung, and to examine a collection of historical items related to bell ringing dating from the late 1890s to the present day.

Whether your interest is in history, community, or learning the unique traditional art of bell change-ringing, come along to the Heritage Open Days and experience the hidden story of St John’s Church.

Timings

Saturday 19 September:

1000-1600: Church & bell tower guided tours 1030, 1230, 1430

Sunday 20 September:

1130-1530: Church & bell tower guided tours 1200, 1400

Location & directions

St. John the Evangelist Church, 222 Epsom Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU4 7AA

Directions:

Parking is available in the church centre car park and in the public car park opposite the church at the top of Merrow Street.

Contact on day:

Lynn Boniface

Telephone number:

+447557330288

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

There is limited disabled parking in the church car park. Additional general parking is available in the public car park opposite the church at the top of Merrow Street. Full wheelchair access to the church. Accessible toilet with baby changing facilities in the church centre. Refreshments available in the church. Note that the bell chamber is accessed by narrow spiral stairs with 33 steps. Under 18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian when visiting the bell tower.

Additional information

Max number of people:

50

Estimated duration:

0 hour(s) 45 minute(s)

Check out our online channels

Back to results