St John the Baptist's Church, Hove

St John the Baptist's Church is a Victorian building constructed from stone and flint, featuring Gothic revival elements that define its appearance. Lancet windows and a prominent spire rising above the roofline give the structure its distinctive silhouette when viewed from the surrounding streets.

Matthew Edward Habershon designed the church in 1852 for the growing Brunswick area community, with construction completed in 1854. Local residents raised the funds for the project, making it a collaborative effort to build a place of worship for their expanding neighbourhood.

The church maintains Anglican traditions through regular services and monthly Celtic Communion gatherings that bring together people seeking different spiritual expressions. These practices show how the community has adapted its worship to include various Christian traditions over time.

The church stands at the intersection of Church Road and Palmeira Square, making it easy to locate in the local area. Regular Sunday services are held throughout the year, and weekday activities for children offer opportunities for families to visit beyond weekend worship.

The church received Grade II listing status in 1983, recognising its architectural importance within the local heritage landscape. This designation reflects how the Victorian design has remained a valued example of 1800s craftsmanship and community building in the area.