St John the Baptist Church Southover
A historic church in Lewes with a stout 1700s brick tower, elegant interiors, and the unique Gundrada chapel. Offers peace and historical charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
St John the Baptist Church Southover
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic church in Lewes with a stout 1700s brick tower, elegant interiors, and the unique Gundrada chapel. Offers peace and historical charm.
"The exterior is rather stolid and uninspiring but if you can take a look inside for a delightful and uplifting experience."
🕊️ Embrace Tranquility
Find peace and quiet in the charming old graveyard. A perfect spot to reflect away from the world.
⛪ Check Service Times
Be aware of ongoing services to ensure a respectful visit. Photography may be restricted.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stout Brick Tower
Exterior
Admire the robust early 1700s brick tower, a testament to enduring architecture.
Elegant Arches
Interior
Marvel at the graceful arches supported by Caen stone piers, showcasing classic design.
Gundrada Chapel
Interior
Experience the striking Victorian stonework in the Gundrada Chapel, a unique architectural blend.
Colourful Stained Glass
Interior
Be captivated by the vibrant hues of the beautifully crafted stained glass windows.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🕊️ Embrace Tranquility
Find peace and quiet in the charming old graveyard. A perfect spot to reflect away from the world.
⛪ Check Service Times
Be aware of ongoing services to ensure a respectful visit. Photography may be restricted.
🚶 Explore Nearby Ruins
The church is close to priory ruins, making it a great stop for history buffs.
✨ Step Inside
Don't let the 'uninspiring' exterior fool you; the interior is delightful and uplifting.
Tips
from all over the internet
🕊️ Embrace Tranquility
Find peace and quiet in the charming old graveyard. A perfect spot to reflect away from the world.
⛪ Check Service Times
Be aware of ongoing services to ensure a respectful visit. Photography may be restricted.
🚶 Explore Nearby Ruins
The church is close to priory ruins, making it a great stop for history buffs.
✨ Step Inside
Don't let the 'uninspiring' exterior fool you; the interior is delightful and uplifting.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
St John the Baptist Church Southover is a historic gem in Lewes, praised for its beautiful interior featuring elegant arches and the unique Gundrada chapel, despite a more unassuming exterior. Visitors appreciate the peace and tranquility it offers, especially in its charming graveyard, making it a worthwhile stop for history and quiet reflection.
"Historic church with a stout brick tower built in the early 1700s, situated in an attractive area of Lewes close to the priory ruins.
Inside, notable features include elegant arches supported on Caen stone piers, and colourful stained glass windows. The Gundrada chapel with its Victorian stonework mimicking Norman architecture is particularly striking."
Andrew Thomas
"I really love church family and I really love the atmosphere and the service for my dad last year now he was 82"
Andrew Williams
"Lovely church. Everyone very friendly"
Joy Cox
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St John the Baptist Church Southover is located in Lewes, close to the priory ruins. Public transport options to Lewes are available, and the church is within walking distance from the town center. Parking may be limited in the immediate vicinity, so consider public transport or walking if possible.
Parking near St John the Baptist Church Southover can be challenging due to its location in an attractive area of Lewes. It's advisable to check local parking regulations or consider public parking facilities in Lewes town center and walking to the church.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
St John the Baptist Church Southover is typically open for visits, and usually, no ticket is required for general exploration. However, it's always best to check the official opening hours and any potential entry fees for special events or services.
Opening hours for St John the Baptist Church Southover can vary, especially on Sundays due to services. It's recommended to check the church's official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on visiting times.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use inside St John the Baptist Church Southover, but it's crucial to be respectful. During services or special events, photography might be restricted. Always look for signage or ask a church official if unsure.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside St John the Baptist Church Southover, visitors can admire elegant arches supported by Caen stone piers, colorful stained glass windows, and the striking Gundrada chapel with its Victorian stonework. The church offers a delightful and uplifting experience.
Yes, St John the Baptist Church Southover is often described as a place of peace and tranquility. Visiting during weekdays or off-peak hours can enhance the quiet experience, and the churchyard offers a contemplative space.
St John the Baptist Church Southover is an interesting church in an area of great historic significance in Lewes. It features a stout brick tower built in the early 1700s and is situated near priory ruins, adding to its historical context.
The church boasts several notable architectural features, including elegant arches supported by Caen stone piers, colorful stained glass windows, and the unique Gundrada chapel, which features Victorian stonework designed to mimic Norman architecture.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While St John the Baptist Church Southover itself doesn't offer dining, its location in Lewes means there are numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants nearby. You can find a variety of options to suit different tastes and budgets in the town center.
📸 📸 Photography
The stout brick tower and the charming old graveyard offer great exterior photography opportunities. Inside, the elegant arches, colorful stained glass windows, and the detailed stonework of the Gundrada chapel are particularly photogenic.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted inside St John the Baptist Church Southover. However, always be respectful of worshippers and any restrictions during services.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
History Enthusiasts
Take time to explore the churchyard, which is not only a peaceful spot but also a historical archive in itself. The blend of architectural styles and its significant location in Lewes make it a compelling stop for anyone looking to delve into local heritage and architectural evolution.
Seekers of Tranquility
While the church is an active place of worship, visiting during off-peak hours can enhance the serene experience. The gentle atmosphere, combined with the historical surroundings, makes it a perfect spot for quiet contemplation and a restorative pause in your day.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Highlights
One of the most striking features is the Gundrada chapel. This area is notable for its intricate Victorian stonework, which has been meticulously crafted to mimic Norman architecture. This unique approach to restoration and design offers a distinct visual experience, blending historical reverence with Victorian craftsmanship. The combination of these elements makes exploring the church an engaging journey through architectural history.
A Place of Peace and History
The church is described as an 'interesting church in an area of great historic significance'. Its presence near the priory ruins enhances its appeal for those interested in local history. While the exterior might be perceived as 'rather stolid and uninspiring' by some, the interior experience is consistently praised as 'delightful and uplifting'. This contrast highlights the hidden treasures within, making it a worthwhile destination for a quiet, reflective visit.
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