St John the Evangelist, Great Stanmore

St John the Evangelist is an Anglican church in Great Stanmore built in 1850 using Early Decorated Gothic architectural style. The structure features Kentish rag and Bath stone with characteristic pointed arches and stone tracery typical of its period.

The current building replaced two earlier churches, including a 1632 red-brick structure funded by merchant Sir John Wolstenholme. That earlier building was consecrated by Archbishop William Laud, marking an important moment in the parish's development.

The church holds multiple memorial plaques honoring notable figures, including the Earl of Aberdeen and W.S. Gilbert, the librettist famous for his comic operas. These memorials reflect the place's connection to influential cultural and aristocratic circles.

Visitors can explore the old church ruins during guided tours on select Saturdays between April and September. Check in advance to confirm availability and plan your visit around these seasonal tour schedules.

Queen Adelaide attended the foundation stone laying ceremony, donated the church font, and made her final public appearance at this event. This royal connection left a permanent mark on the church through the font that remains visible to visitors today.

Website: http://stjohnschurchstanmore.org.uk

GPS coordinates: 51.61611,-0.31556

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:40