St John the Baptist City Parish Church
Cardiff's oldest church, a 12th-century medieval marvel with a striking tower and rich history, offering a peaceful city centre sanctuary.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
St John the Baptist City Parish Church
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cardiff's oldest church, a 12th-century medieval marvel with a striking tower and rich history, offering a peaceful city centre sanctuary.
"A beautiful and serene place of worship nestled in the heart of the city, offering a peaceful retreat."
Look for the Cyberman! 🤖
Doctor Who fans should hunt for the hidden 'tiny Cyberman' inside the church.
Check Cafe Hours ☕
The church cafe is open Wednesday to Saturdays, serving homemade food with Welsh hospitality.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Medieval Tower
Exterior
A striking 130-foot Perpendicular Gothic tower, rebuilt in the 15th century, offering panoramic city views.
Stained Glass Windows
Interior
Beautiful stained glass windows that add to the historic charm and serene atmosphere of the church.
Doctor Who Filming Spot
Interior/Exterior
Seek out the 'tiny Cyberman' and other filming locations from 'The Runaway Bride' episode.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Medieval Gem in the City Centre
Hidden Filming Location
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Seen inside St. John’s Church in Cardiff
Look for the Cyberman! 🤖
Doctor Who fans should hunt for the hidden 'tiny Cyberman' inside the church.
Check Cafe Hours ☕
The church cafe is open Wednesday to Saturdays, serving homemade food with Welsh hospitality.
Highlights of Cardiff?
Festive donkeys at St John’s Church (Trinity Street) in town.
Explore the Garden 🌿
Behind the church, discover a peaceful garden with old gravestones.
Admire the Architecture 🏛️
Take time to appreciate the 15th-century Perpendicular Gothic tower and interior details.
Tips
from all over the internet
Look for the Cyberman! 🤖
Doctor Who fans should hunt for the hidden 'tiny Cyberman' inside the church.
Check Cafe Hours ☕
The church cafe is open Wednesday to Saturdays, serving homemade food with Welsh hospitality.
Explore the Garden 🌿
Behind the church, discover a peaceful garden with old gravestones.
Admire the Architecture 🏛️
Take time to appreciate the 15th-century Perpendicular Gothic tower and interior details.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise St John the Baptist City Parish Church for its beautiful architecture, historical significance as Cardiff's oldest church, and peaceful atmosphere. Many appreciate its central location as a serene escape from the city bustle. Some note that while historically rich, the interior might feel less ornate compared to grand cathedrals, and opening hours can sometimes be variable.
"This is worth the visit and has beautiful architecture inside and outside. We learned that it is the oldest church in Cardiff’s city centre which features beautiful stained glass and an inside memorial to Sir John Herbert. There was tea time offered when we were there."
Catherine Hunt
"Pillars of the church from 15th and 19th century tell the tales of its origin and standing. A nice place, deserves a visit when in the city centre.
Hours are not defined yet I found some hours pasted inside their premises."
Parinita Agrawal
"There was lots of talking 👄 in tongues 👅 in Welsh Wales. It was like entering the tower of Babel as I crossed ✝️ the threshold of Saint John the Baptist's house of the holy. A tad disappointing 😞 when compared with recent visits to god's gaffs. I had been spoilt in Hereford recently and had to compare this to that. Yeah, all the craftspersonship was there to be seen but there wasn't a huge amount of it. It almost seemed as if they'd run out of coloured glass as I looked through the clear stuff to see if the clouds were darkening to release that lightning bolt 🌩 in my direction. I must set my sights on more cathedra!"
Bill Robson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is conveniently located in the heart of Cardiff's city centre, right next to the Covered Market and main shopping area. It's easily accessible on foot from most central Cardiff locations. Public transport options like buses and trains will bring you to the city centre, from where it's a short walk.
While there isn't dedicated parking directly at the church, several city centre car parks are nearby, such as the St David's Shopping Centre car park or the Capitol Shopping Centre car park.
Information on specific accessibility features can vary. It's advisable to contact the church directly or check their official website for the most up-to-date details regarding wheelchair access and facilities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to St John the Baptist City Parish Church is generally free, as it is a place of worship. Donations are welcome to help with the upkeep of this historic building.
Opening hours can sometimes be variable, and it's best to check for the most current times. Some visitors have noted hours posted inside the premises. The cafe is typically open Wednesday to Saturdays.
Yes, St John's is an active place of worship. Services are held regularly, and visitors are welcome to attend. Check their schedule for specific service times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The church boasts a magnificent 15th-century Perpendicular Gothic west tower, standing 130 feet tall. Inside, you'll find beautiful stained glass windows and architectural elements that reflect its medieval origins and later restorations.
Yes, the church offers many photographic opportunities, from its impressive exterior tower to the detailed interior architecture and stained glass. The surrounding city centre also provides a dynamic backdrop.
Inside, you can find memorials, including one to Sir John Herbert. The pillars themselves, dating from the 15th and 19th centuries, tell stories of the church's long history.
Visitors often describe the atmosphere as calm, serene, and reflective, offering a peaceful retreat from the busy city streets. It's a welcoming community space.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the church has a cafe that is open from Wednesday to Saturday. They serve simple, good homemade food with a focus on warm Welsh hospitality.
The cafe offers simple, homemade food. It's a great spot to grab a light meal or a refreshment while visiting the church or exploring the city centre.
📸 📸 Photography
The 15th-century tower is a must-capture from the outside. Inside, focus on the intricate stained glass windows and the overall architectural grandeur. The garden behind the church also offers a different perspective.
Generally, photography for personal use is permitted inside the church, but it's always respectful to be mindful of ongoing services or events. Avoid flash photography during services.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the church is a place of quiet reflection, the nearby Cardiff Market offers a more bustling experience for younger visitors, and the church's cafe provides a convenient spot for a family snack. The garden behind the church can also be a small, safe space for kids to explore briefly.
🚶 History & Architecture Buffs
Explore the details of the stained glass windows and the stonework, which tell stories of craftsmanship and historical events. The church's Grade I listing underscores its national heritage significance, making it a valuable site for understanding architectural development and historical continuity in Wales.
🎬 Doctor Who Fans
Fans can actively seek out the 'tiny Cyberman' hidden within the church, a subtle but exciting Easter egg for those in the know. Visiting St John's offers a unique opportunity to step onto a piece of Doctor Who filming history and connect with the show in a tangible way.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The History of St John's
Further restorations in the late Victorian period added north and south aisles, but the church largely retains its medieval character. It's a Grade I listed building, recognized for its immense heritage value. Beyond its architectural significance, St. John's has also played a role in popular culture, notably as a filming location for the Doctor Who episode 'The Runaway Bride,' adding a modern layer to its ancient story.
Today, St. John's continues to be a vibrant community hub, known for its diverse, liberal, and inclusive ethos. It actively engages in social justice and welcomes people of all backgrounds. The church is not just a historical monument but a living, breathing part of Cardiff's community, offering a sanctuary and a place for worship and connection.
Architectural Marvels and Hidden Gems
Beyond the grand features, St. John's holds a few delightful surprises. For fans of science fiction, the church is known to hide a 'tiny Cyberman', a nod to its appearance in the Doctor Who episode 'The Runaway Bride.' This quirky detail adds an element of fun and discovery for visitors. The church also features a peaceful garden area behind the building, complete with old gravestones, offering a quiet space for reflection away from the city's hustle.
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