
Anglican Cathedral of St John the Baptist
A magnificent Gothic Revival cathedral, rebuilt through fires, showcasing stunning architecture, stained glass, and a unique Ocean Labyrinth.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Anglican Cathedral of St John the Baptist
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent Gothic Revival cathedral, rebuilt through fires, showcasing stunning architecture, stained glass, and a unique Ocean Labyrinth.
"A must-see for its dramatic church beauty, stained glass, and echoes of history."

🎯 Take a Guided Tour
Gain deeper insights into the cathedral's history and architecture. Tours are highly recommended!
🤫 Speak Softly Inside
The acoustics are incredible; voices echo, so keep conversations hushed out of respect.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gothic Revival Architecture
Marvel at the intricate stonework, soaring arches, and detailed carvings that define this magnificent structure.

Stained-Glass Windows
Be captivated by the vibrant storytelling depicted in the numerous, beautifully crafted stained-glass windows.

Ocean Health Labyrinth
Explore the unique Ocean Labyrinth, an artistic installation inspired by ocean health and resilience.

Crypt Tearoom (Seasonal)
Enjoy a delightful break in the crypt tearoom, offering refreshments in a unique historical setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Embrace the History and Architecture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Take a Guided Tour
Gain deeper insights into the cathedral's history and architecture. Tours are highly recommended!
🤫 Speak Softly Inside
The acoustics are incredible; voices echo, so keep conversations hushed out of respect.
📸 Capture the Details
Bring your camera to photograph the stunning stained glass and architectural elements.
🚶♀️ Explore Church Hill
The cathedral is part of a historic area; explore surrounding churches and architecture.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Take a Guided Tour
Gain deeper insights into the cathedral's history and architecture. Tours are highly recommended!
🤫 Speak Softly Inside
The acoustics are incredible; voices echo, so keep conversations hushed out of respect.
📸 Capture the Details
Bring your camera to photograph the stunning stained glass and architectural elements.
🚶♀️ Explore Church Hill
The cathedral is part of a historic area; explore surrounding churches and architecture.
📅 Check for Events
The cathedral hosts concerts and special ceremonies; check their schedule for unique experiences.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist for its stunning Gothic Revival architecture, particularly its intricate wooden ceilings, arches, and vibrant stained-glass windows. Many highlight the profound sense of history and resilience embedded in its structure, often enhanced by informative guided tours. The unique Ocean Labyrinth and seasonal crypt tearoom add to the memorable experience.
"Great tour. Learnt something new about St. Johns history. The photograph where a haunted labour’s picture is so prominent, which is a living proof of no photo editing in olden days. Jesus’s face on the highest pillar got goose bumps. Really had a wonderful experience."
Sonali KS
"A beautiful Anglican church on Church Hill. The interior has many stainless windows depicting the typical stories of the Bible. Definitely worth a visit to see a dramatic church that has been destroyed and rebuilt over the many fires of this hill."
C Neon
"Stunning Cathedral!! A must see! Beautiful architecture, stained glass windows and organs. The wood ceiling and arches are amazing. Must speak low out of respect and due to voices that echo. Please video inside the Cathedral as I did...when I was recoding you could hear a pin drop as there was no other person around but when I listened to the video afterwards I could hear the pipes making beautiful sounds, foot steps walking on the old wood floor, (there was only me there in the morning) knocking sounds from around and echoes of odd noises. Amazing Location and you must not miss it. There are several other Cathedrals and Churches in St. Johns Newfoundland that are worth visiting.
A few pictures provided of my visit 🙂"
Melody
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The cathedral is located on Church Hill in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador. It's easily accessible by foot if you're exploring downtown, as many visitors find themselves with ample time to walk around the area.
Parking can be limited in the downtown area, especially during peak times. It's often best to walk or consider public transport if available.
Absolutely! If you have several hours to spare, walking is a great way to see the city and reach the cathedral. It's a scenic route that allows you to appreciate the surrounding architecture.
Walking is highly recommended to explore Church Hill and the surrounding historic buildings, including other notable churches and the Supreme Court.
Yes, the cathedral is situated among other iconic Newfoundland architecture like the Supreme Court and The Rooms, making it easy to plan a walking tour of the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the cathedral is generally free, though donations are appreciated. Guided tours may have a fee, which is well worth it for the historical context.
Opening hours can vary, especially seasonally. It's best to check the official website or call ahead to confirm current hours, particularly if you plan to visit the crypt tearoom.
While general entry is free, guided tours often come with a fee. These tours provide invaluable historical and architectural insights that enhance the visitor experience.
The crypt tearoom is typically a seasonal offering. Check the cathedral's schedule for operating dates and times if you wish to enjoy refreshments in this unique setting.
Photography is generally allowed inside, but it's important to be respectful of ongoing services or other visitors. Some areas might have specific restrictions.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
The cathedral is a prime example of Gothic Revival architecture, characterized by its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and ornate detailing.
Don't miss the stunning stained-glass windows depicting biblical stories, the impressive wooden ceiling and arches, and the unique Ocean Labyrinth.
Due to the impressive acoustics, voices can echo significantly. It's advised to speak softly to maintain a respectful atmosphere.
Yes, the cathedral frequently hosts concerts, musical performances, and special ceremonies. Checking their schedule can lead to a memorable experience.
The Ocean Labyrinth is an artistic installation inspired by ocean health and resilience, adding a contemporary and thought-provoking element to the historical site.
📸 📸 Photography
Focus on the intricate details of the stained-glass windows, the grandeur of the wooden ceiling and arches, and any unique artistic installations like the Ocean Labyrinth.
Yes, videos are generally permitted, but always be mindful of ongoing services and other visitors. Capturing the ambient sounds can be surprisingly rewarding.
The cathedral's imposing Gothic Revival facade offers excellent exterior shots, especially from Church Hill, which also provides views of other historic buildings.
Morning light can beautifully illuminate the stained-glass windows, creating vibrant colors. However, the cathedral's ambiance is striking at any time.
Visitors often mention the goosebump-inducing effect of Jesus's face on a high pillar and the historical photographs displayed, showcasing early photographic techniques.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for any special events or exhibits that might be more interactive or engaging for younger visitors. The seasonal crypt tearoom could also be a fun treat after exploring the cathedral. Remember to emphasize the importance of quiet voices and respectful movement within the sacred space to ensure a positive experience for everyone.
🚶 History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Take advantage of guided tours to delve into the specific historical events and architectural decisions that shaped the cathedral. Pay close attention to the stained-glass windows, which often tell stories of biblical events and local history. The unique Ocean Labyrinth also presents an interesting juxtaposition of historical and contemporary artistic expression.
🎶 Music Lovers
From classical performances featuring Renaissance music to more contemporary sound installations, the cathedral provides a breathtaking backdrop for any auditory experience. Check the cathedral's schedule for upcoming events to potentially witness a truly magical performance in this acoustically superb environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: Gothic Revival
This style was chosen to evoke a sense of historical continuity and spiritual grandeur. The cathedral's design reflects a commitment to craftsmanship and a desire to create a sacred space that inspires reverence. The careful restoration efforts have ensured that these architectural features are preserved for future generations to appreciate.
Resilience and Rebirth: A Cathedral's History
Each rebuilding phase has likely incorporated elements of the prevailing architectural styles and construction techniques of the time, while striving to maintain the cathedral's original character. The stories of its destruction and subsequent reconstruction are a testament to the dedication of its congregation and the wider community. Understanding this history enriches the experience of exploring its sacred spaces.
Artistic Expressions Within Sacred Walls
Furthermore, the cathedral has hosted musical performances, including Renaissance music and contemporary sound installations. The Ocean Labyrinth, an art piece inspired by ocean health, adds a unique, modern artistic dimension to the sacred space. These artistic elements contribute to a multi-faceted experience, appealing to both spiritual and aesthetic sensibilities.

Social
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