St John the Evangelist Church - Image 1
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St John the Evangelist Church

4.4
·67 reviews·, United Kingdom

Leeds' oldest church, a 1630s gem featuring stunning Jacobean carvings and a peaceful city centre sanctuary.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Likely open hours

CrowdLow
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St John the Evangelist Church - Image 1

St John the Evangelist Church

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Likely open hours

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Leeds' oldest church, a 1630s gem featuring stunning Jacobean carvings and a peaceful city centre sanctuary.

4.4
(67 reviews)

"A very lovely quiet place with incredible scene during sunny days."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Opening Hours

Often only open a few hours on Saturdays. Confirm before your visit!

✨ Attend a Service/Event

Best way to see inside and experience the atmosphere.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jacobean Treasures

Jacobean Treasures

Marvel at the richly carved screen and other Jacobean artifacts, showcasing centuries of history.

Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

Admire the oldest church in Leeds city centre, a testament to 17th-century English architecture.

Leeds Light Night

Leeds Light Night

Experience the church transformed during this annual event with beautiful light installations.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

Check opening hours before you go, as St. John the Evangelist Church is often only open for a few hours on Saturdays or for specific events. Attending a service or event can offer a unique glimpse inside.

Location & Accessibility

Situated in Leeds city centre, it's easy to find. While the church itself is historic, some reviews mention good accessibility for pushchairs during events like Leeds Light Night.

Best Times

When
Saturday mornings
Why
Likely open hours
Crowd
Low
When
During events
Why
Unique access & atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The ghouls are back in the cathedral #nyc #halloween #church #stjohnthedivine #newyorkcity #spooky #thingstodoinnyc
@hereinnyc
79.1K likes • 681K views

🎯 Check Opening Hours

Often only open a few hours on Saturdays. Confirm before your visit! Reddit

✨ Attend a Service/Event

Best way to see inside and experience the atmosphere. Reddit+1

#fyp #foryou #foryoupage #altarserver #sakristan #sjeparish #stjohntheevangelistparish #rjespares
@esparesrjj
29K likes • 139.1K views
The Power of Presence Sunday Message - 23 March 2025 (Sunday L3C) Mass from St John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Campbelltown with Fr Richard Healey Third Sunday in Lent, Year C During my latest homily, I delved into the story of Moses and the burning bush, emphasising the importance of being present in the moment. Moses had to stop and take notice of the burning bush—a powerful metaphor for ...
rmhealey
13 likes • 485 views

🚶‍♀️ City Centre Oasis

A peaceful spot amidst the busy Leeds city centre. Reddit

📸 Leeds Light Night

Spectacular light displays make it a must-see during this event. Reddit

St John the Evangelist Church JC nagar 53 Little ANGELS Received Jesus for the first time today 23/04/23.
st_john_the_evangelist_youth
200 likes • 2.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Opening Hours

Often only open a few hours on Saturdays. Confirm before your visit! Reddit

✨ Attend a Service/Event

Best way to see inside and experience the atmosphere. Reddit+1

🚶‍♀️ City Centre Oasis

A peaceful spot amidst the busy Leeds city centre. Reddit

📸 Leeds Light Night

Spectacular light displays make it a must-see during this event. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(67 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise St. John the Evangelist Church as a beautiful, well-maintained historic site and a peaceful oasis in Leeds city centre. Its Jacobean treasures and role in events like Leeds Light Night are highlights. However, limited opening hours can be a point of frustration for those hoping to visit spontaneously.

"A very lovely quiet place with incredible scene during sunny days. Located in Leeds city centre and not difficult to find. During the year sometimes there will be some events within the park around the church, such as Leeds Light Night. Nice place to relax alone or with friends."

Sheryl Yu

"The oldest church in Leeds city centre. Built in 1632-34 English civil war?. Normally it is open for a few hours on Saturday. But I attended a Christmas carol service and that is why I can sit the church inside and see outside with light in darkness.

I think the church is quite well maintained and it should be not just preserved but also utilised. Think about it. The location of this church is excellent for Leeds residents and tourists. A must go for the history of Leeds. An oasis for spiritual rest among such a busy city."

Daniel So

"Oldest Church in Leeds founded in the year 1579 built in 1632 AD located in the quiet place with scenic beauty,memorable building for citizens of Leeds."

Paul Inbaraj Pillai

What People Like

Historic architecture
Jacobean treasures
Peaceful city centre location

What People Dislike

Limited opening hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St. John the Evangelist Church is located in the heart of Leeds city centre, making it easily accessible by public transport. Numerous bus routes stop nearby, and Leeds train station is a short walk away. Parking in the city centre can be challenging and expensive, so public transport is often recommended. Reddit

Yes, it's situated in Leeds city centre, which can be quite busy. However, many visitors describe it as an 'oasis for spiritual rest' amidst the hustle and bustle. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The church is typically open for a few hours on Saturdays. It's essential to check the specific opening times before your visit, as they can vary. Reddit

Generally, entry to the church is free. However, for special events like Christmas carols or Leeds Light Night, you might need to book in advance or there may be specific access arrangements. Reddit+1

Yes, attending a service is a great way to experience the church's interior and atmosphere. Visitors have attended Christmas carol services and found it a memorable experience. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

It's the oldest church in Leeds city centre, built in 1632-34, and features Jacobean treasures like a richly carved screen. It's considered a historic landmark and a place of quiet reflection. Reddit+1

Yes, the church sometimes hosts events, including Leeds Light Night, where it's beautifully illuminated. It also hosts services like Christmas carols. Reddit

Absolutely! As the oldest church in Leeds city centre with significant historical features like its Jacobean screen, it's a must-go for understanding Leeds' history. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, photography is generally permitted in churches for personal use, provided it's done respectfully and doesn't disrupt services or events. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior architecture, especially on a sunny day, offers great shots. During events like Leeds Light Night, the church is beautifully lit, providing unique photographic opportunities. Reddit+1

The richly carved Jacobean screen is a highlight. The overall 17th-century architecture of the oldest church in Leeds city centre is also very photogenic. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St. John the Evangelist Church can be a peaceful stop for families. While its historical nature might not immediately captivate younger children, attending events like Leeds Light Night can be a fantastic experience, offering visual wonder and a less crowded alternative to other attractions during the event. Reddit Some reviews suggest good accessibility for pushchairs during these events, making it easier for families with very young children to navigate. Instagram Consider checking for family-friendly services or events that might offer a more engaging experience for kids.

🏛️ History Enthusiasts

This church is a goldmine for history buffs! As the oldest church in Leeds city centre, its 1630s construction and Jacobean treasures, particularly the richly carved screen, are significant historical artifacts. Reddit+1 Visiting offers a direct connection to the city's past and the architectural styles of the English Civil War era. It's a must-visit to understand the historical fabric of Leeds. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Day-Trippers

For solo travelers or those on a day trip to Leeds, St. John the Evangelist Church offers a tranquil escape from the city's bustle. Reddit+1 Its central location makes it easy to incorporate into a walking tour. Check Saturday opening hours to ensure you can step inside and admire its historic features, especially the Jacobean screen. Reddit If your visit coincides with Leeds Light Night, it's a unique opportunity for a memorable evening experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

St. John the Evangelist Church holds the distinction of being the oldest church in Leeds city centre. Its construction dates back to the 1630s, a period marked by the English Civil War, adding a layer of historical significance to its very foundations. Reddit+1 The church is particularly renowned for its Jacobean treasures, most notably its richly carved screen, which stands as a testament to the craftsmanship of that era. Visiting this church offers a tangible connection to centuries of Leeds' past, making it a vital stop for anyone interested in local history. Reddit

Beyond its architectural and historical importance, St. John the Evangelist Church has also been a venue for community events. It has been noted for its participation in Leeds Light Night, transforming into a visually stunning display with light installations. Reddit This demonstrates its role not just as a historical monument but also as a living part of the contemporary city, capable of hosting modern cultural experiences. The church's location in the city centre also makes it a convenient yet serene destination for both residents and tourists seeking a moment of quiet contemplation. Reddit

Experiencing St. John's Today

While its historical significance is undeniable, St. John the Evangelist Church continues to serve its community. Although often open for limited hours, typically a few hours on Saturdays, attending a service or a special event provides the best opportunity to experience its interior. Reddit Visitors have shared positive experiences attending Christmas carol services, highlighting the memorable atmosphere created within the historic walls. Reddit The church is described as a well-maintained and beautiful space, with some suggesting it should be not only preserved but also actively utilized for community benefit. Reddit

For those interested in photography, the church offers several appealing subjects. The exterior architecture is striking, especially on a sunny day. Reddit During events like Leeds Light Night, the church becomes a canvas for impressive light art, offering unique and vibrant photo opportunities. Reddit Even with its historic nature, some reviews indicate that the church and its surrounding areas can be accessible, with mentions of accommodating pushchairs during events, suggesting a thoughtful approach to visitor experience. Instagram

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