St John's Gate

St John's Gate is a medieval brick and stone archway in Clerkenwell that once served as the main entrance to a former priory. The structure displays architectural features from different periods, including Victorian details added during later restoration work.

The gate was built in 1504 as an entrance to a priory and remained an important location for a religious order for centuries. After King Henry VIII dissolved the monasteries in the 1500s, its original purpose ended and it found new uses over time.

The gate holds connections to literary history through its use as a printing center where important written works came to life. Visitors can see the rooms where writers once worked on their manuscripts.

The site now houses a museum displaying objects and documents that tell the story of the building and its past. Visitors should allow time to explore the exhibits and check opening hours before planning a visit.

A printing business was founded here and operated for a long time, producing a well-known periodical that became influential in its field. This literary connection gives the place special interest for those curious about written history.

Location: London Borough of Islington

Inception: 1504

Part of: Clerkenwell Priory

GPS coordinates: 51.52202,-0.10281

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:56