Old St John the Baptist's Church, Pilling

Old St John the Baptist's Church is a Georgian building constructed from red sandstone, featuring a double bellcote on top, five window sections, and rounded arched windows along its southern side. The structure shows the careful architectural design typical of its construction period.

It replaced a medieval chapel previously served by monks from Cockersand Abbey and was completed in 1717 following a request from the local parish. The walls were raised in 1813 to add gallery space inside.

Inside, Tuscan columns hold up galleries and original oak pews from the early 1700s still line the space, showing how worshippers once occupied this room.

The building is maintained by the Churches Conservation Trust, which keeps it open for visitors. Check opening hours before arriving, as access can vary depending on local arrangements.

The church remained almost unchanged for nearly a century before its only major structural modification. This stability makes it a rare example of unaltered Georgian church architecture.

Location: Pilling

Inception: 1717

Architectural style: Georgian architecture

Website: http://visitchurches.org.uk/findachurch/st-john-the-baptist-pilling/?region=Lancashire

GPS coordinates: 53.92900,-2.91110

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:40