Church of St John the Baptist

The Church of St John the Baptist in Glastonbury dates primarily from the 15th century, replacing an earlier church that may have Saxon origins. Tradition credits Saint Dunstan with founding the original church in the 10th century. Archaeological evidence suggests the earlier church included a central Saxon tower, which likely collapsed before the current Perpendicular Gothic church was built. The church also played a role in later history, serving as shelter for Monmouth's troops in 1685 and housing French prisoners of war in the early 1800s. It underwent a major restoration by Sir George Gilbert Scott in 1856–1857.

Today, the Church of St John the Baptist is a Grade I listed building and one of Somerset's finest examples of Perpendicular Gothic architecture. It is renowned for its 41-metre (134.5 ft) west tower, the second tallest parish church tower in Somerset, as well as its medieval stained glass, historic tombs, and ring of eight bells. The churchyard features a descendant of the famous Glastonbury Thorn, whose Christmas blossom is traditionally sent to the reigning monarch, and a modern labyrinth installed in 2007 to commemorate Glastonbury's town charter.

Address
Church Lane 2, Glastonbury, United Kingdom

Established
1450