St John the Baptist Church, Southover - Image 1
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St John the Baptist Church Southover

4.5
·28 reviews·, United Kingdom

A historic church in Lewes with a stout 1700s brick tower, elegant interiors, and the unique Gundrada chapel. Offers peace and historical charm.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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St John the Baptist Church, Southover - Image 1

St John the Baptist Church Southover

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.5
(28 reviews)

"The exterior is rather stolid and uninspiring but if you can take a look inside for a delightful and uplifting experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

🕊️ 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stout Brick Tower

Stout Brick Tower

Exterior

Admire the robust early 1700s brick tower, a testament to enduring architecture.

Elegant Arches

Elegant Arches

Interior

Marvel at the graceful arches supported by Caen stone piers, showcasing classic design.

Gundrada Chapel

Gundrada Chapel

Interior

Experience the striking Victorian stonework in the Gundrada Chapel, a unique architectural blend.

Colourful Stained Glass

Colourful Stained Glass

Interior

Be captivated by the vibrant hues of the beautifully crafted stained glass windows.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds. Check for any special services or events beforehand, as these can impact accessibility and atmosphere. Early mornings or late afternoons often offer a more peaceful experience.

Respectful Exploration

As an active place of worship, please be mindful of ongoing services and maintain a quiet demeanor. Dress respectfully, and be aware that photography may be restricted during services. Check opening hours before your visit.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The spirit of Christ✝️ #philipanthonymitchell #trinity #gospel #sin #faith #thechrist #christiantiktok #amen #churchtiktok #bibletok
@threads0fglory
24.8K likes • 156.4K views

🕊️ Embrace Tranquility

Find peace and quiet in the charming old graveyard. A perfect spot to reflect away from the world. Reddit

⛪ Check Service Times

Be aware of ongoing services to ensure a respectful visit. Photography may be restricted. Reddit

Trinity Church’s organ was severely damaged in the Sept. 11 attacks. Nearly 10 years (and $17 million) later, its replacement has been unveiled. Hear the sound of its 8,041 pipes. Video by George Etheredge and Arijeta Lajka. #ny #newyork #newyorkcity
@nytimes
13.1K likes • 103.4K views
Sat Confession Time at St John The Baptist Church God First @cath
steve_martorano
449 likes • 8.1K views

🚶 Explore Nearby Ruins

The church is close to priory ruins, making it a great stop for history buffs. Reddit

✨ Step Inside

Don't let the 'uninspiring' exterior fool you; the interior is delightful and uplifting. Reddit

On Sunday, September 7th, 2025, the parish of St. James gathered at St. John The Baptist Anglican Church for a soul-stirring We Gatherin’ Church Service. Reverend Wayne McD. Kirton delivered a powerful sermon with messages that touched on the pressing issue of elder abuse and why it must be denounced by all of society. #WeGatherin #StJames #CommunitySpirit #FaithAndCulture #RespectOurElders
wegatherinbarbados
863 likes • 29K views

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. Reddit

⛪ Check Service Times

Be aware of ongoing services to ensure a respectful visit. Photography may be restricted. Reddit

🚶 Explore Nearby Ruins

The church is close to priory ruins, making it a great stop for history buffs. Reddit

✨ Step Inside

Don't let the 'uninspiring' exterior fool you; the interior is delightful and uplifting. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(28 reviews)

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

Beautiful interior
Peaceful atmosphere
Historic significance

What People Dislike

Unassuming exterior

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

History Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by history, St John the Baptist Church Southover offers a rich tapestry of the past. Its early 1700s brick tower and proximity to priory ruins provide tangible links to bygone eras. The Gundrada chapel, with its Victorian interpretation of Norman architecture, is a unique point of interest, showcasing evolving historical preservation techniques. Reddit

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. Reddit

Seekers of Tranquility

If you're looking for a peaceful escape, St John the Baptist Church Southover is an ideal destination. Visitors frequently mention the sense of peace and tranquility found within its walls and especially in its charming old graveyard. It's a place where you can truly 'take a break from a mad world' and find a moment of quiet reflection. Reddit

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Highlights

St John the Baptist Church Southover presents a fascinating blend of historical architectural styles. The stout brick tower, dating back to the early 1700s, stands as a robust testament to its era. Inside, visitors are greeted by elegant arches gracefully supported by Caen stone piers, showcasing a classic and refined aesthetic. The colourful stained glass windows add vibrancy and light, creating a captivating atmosphere within the sacred space. Reddit

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. Reddit

A Place of Peace and History

Beyond its architectural merits, St John the Baptist Church Southover is cherished for its serene ambiance and historical significance. Located in an attractive area of Lewes close to priory ruins, it offers a peaceful retreat. Many visitors find solace in the charming old graveyard, describing it as a place to rest and contemplate, offering a welcome break from the 'mad world'. Reddit

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. Reddit

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