St John the Baptist's Church, Stanwick

St John the Baptist's Church in Stanwick St John is a stone building displaying Gothic architecture with a four-bay nave, south aisle, south porch, and a three-stage west tower featuring diagonal buttresses. Anglo-Saxon carved stones are visible within its walls, and the structure sits within the ancient Stanwick Camp, an Iron Age fortification.

The church was founded in 1201 and has occupied this location for over 8 centuries. Its establishment took place at a time when Anglo-Saxon carved stones were already being incorporated into its walls, suggesting an even older sacred or significant presence at the site.

The church holds a deep connection to the Smithson family through its many tombs and memorial stones scattered throughout. An organ built in 1866 by John Fincham of London still stands inside and reflects the community's investment in the place over time.

Entry to the church interior involves stepping down one step, which may present a slight challenge for visitors with reduced mobility. Parking is available directly in front of the churchyard entrance, making access straightforward for most visitors.

The churchyard is surrounded by seven Grade II listed buildings that form a connected historical ensemble. Among these structures stand 18th-century sandstone tombstones and two wells that remain intact from earlier times.

Location: Stanwick St John

Inception: 13 century

Architects: Anthony Salvin

Architectural style: English Gothic architecture, Gothic Revival

Website: http://visitchurches.org.uk/Ourchurches/Completelistofchurches/Church-of-St-John-the-Baptist-Stanwick-North-Yorkshire

GPS coordinates: 54.50280,-1.71560

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:44