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Church of St. John the Baptist
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Church of St. John the Baptist

Church of St. John the Baptist

This 12th century Grade I Listed parish church is one of the oldest in Newcastle, erected
around 1130. The Church was extended several times before about 1450. Some evidence of the original building remains, but most of what can be seen is 14th century. In the chancel north window is the earliest known representation of Newcastle’s coat of arms, in glass, dating from 1375. Newcastle University’s Society of Bell Ringers continues the 500 year tradition of bells being rung in the Church.

Inside the Church is a monument to Richard Grainger, a prominent figure in the urban
redevelopment of Newcastle who also worked with John Dobson and Thomas Oliver.
Grainger’s work can be seen throughout the City centre.

The choir stalls were made by Robert Thompson of Yorkshire, and his trademark mouse can be seen if you look closely.

Five of the windows were designed by William Wailes (1808 – 1881), who had one of England’s largest stained glass workshops in the 19th century. He also designed windows
in Gloucester Cathedral, Chichester Cathedral, and the Roman Catholic Cathedral Church of
St. Mary, in Newcastle.