Church of St John sub Castro, Lewes

The Church of St John sub Castro is a Gothic Revival church in Lewes featuring knapped flint walls, red brick accents, and a crenellated tower. Inside, cast iron posts support galleries along the nave, while the windows include stained glass works by Henry Holiday and Walter Tower.

The church was built in 1839, replacing an 11th-century structure that had occupied a site above a former Roman fort near the River Ouse. This rebuilding reflected 19th-century efforts to modernize religious architecture in the town.

The church serves the Anglican community with regular services under the Diocese of Chichester and hosts various local gatherings and celebrations. It remains a significant meeting place where people come together for both spiritual and community occasions.

The building is easily located in central Lewes and clearly visible from the street. Visitors should keep in mind that services occur at set times and that the church is sometimes closed for private events.

A memorial obelisk in the churchyard honors 28 Finnish soldiers who died as prisoners at Lewes Naval Prison during the Crimean War. This monument represents an unexpected connection between this English town and a distant conflict.

Location: Lewes

Inception: 1839

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

GPS coordinates: 50.87600,0.00940

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:47