Church of St John the Baptist

The Church of St John the Baptist is a Norman church from the 12th century located in Adel. It retains its original two-part structure with the chancel arch and doorway featuring distinctive stone carving throughout.

The church was built between 1150 and 1170 during the Norman period. It has remained largely unaltered since its construction with no later aisles or additional structures added over the centuries.

The church displays intricate stone carvings that reflect medieval religious beliefs and artistic traditions. These carved details show how people expressed their faith through craftsmanship and visual symbolism.

The church welcomes visitors but has specific opening times you should confirm before visiting. The interior spaces are modest and narrow as typical of medieval structures, so movement around the building is quite compact.

Inside the church stands a medieval octagonal font with a wooden canopy designed by artist Eric Gill in 1921. This blend of ancient stone vessel and early modern artistic craftsmanship creates an unexpected visual contrast within the medieval interior.

Location: Leeds

Inception: 1150

Website: http://adelstjohnchurch.org.uk

GPS coordinates: 53.85763,-1.58395

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:02