Anglican Cathedral
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Anglican Cathedral of St John the Baptist

4.8
·143 reviews·St. John's, Canada

A magnificent Gothic Revival cathedral, rebuilt through fires, showcasing stunning architecture, stained glass, and a unique Ocean Labyrinth.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Anglican Cathedral

Anglican Cathedral of St John the Baptist

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A magnificent Gothic Revival cathedral, rebuilt through fires, showcasing stunning architecture, stained glass, and a unique Ocean Labyrinth.

4.8
(143 reviews)

"A must-see for its dramatic church beauty, stained glass, and echoes of history."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gothic Revival Architecture

Gothic Revival Architecture

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

Stained-Glass Windows

Stained-Glass Windows

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

Ocean Health Labyrinth

Ocean Health Labyrinth

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

Crypt Tearoom (Seasonal)

Crypt Tearoom (Seasonal)

Enjoy a delightful break in the crypt tearoom, offering refreshments in a unique historical setting.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

To truly soak in the grandeur of the Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, aim for weekdays outside of peak tourist hours. Early mornings or late afternoons often offer a more serene experience, allowing you to appreciate the intricate details without the hustle and bustle. Check for special events, as these can impact crowd levels and accessibility.

Embrace the History and Architecture

This cathedral is a testament to Gothic Revival architecture and St. John's resilience, having been rebuilt after numerous fires. Take advantage of guided tours to uncover fascinating historical anecdotes and architectural marvels. Don't miss the stunning stained-glass windows and the impressive wooden ceiling and arches.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Good for tours, less busy
Crowd
Medium
When
During special events
Why
Unique experiences, lively
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

New Yorkers Bringing ALL Your Favorite Animals to the Cathedral 🐫 Part 3! The Annual Blessing of the Animals ceremony at @St. John the Divine ❤️ #blessingoftheanimals #saintjohnthedivine #nyc #thingstodoinnyc #entertainmentnews
@mickmicknyc
551.2K likes • 3.3M views

🎯 Take a Guided Tour

Gain deeper insights into the cathedral's history and architecture. Tours are highly recommended! Reddit

🤫 Speak Softly Inside

The acoustics are incredible; voices echo, so keep conversations hushed out of respect. Reddit

My first stop on this trip to NYC was to the cathedral of St John the Divine to view a piece of sculpture that took my father Simon Verity 13 years to finish. #nyc #History #london #fyp
@johnoverity
85.8K likes • 413.4K views
Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist (1850s)
big.julios
12 likes • 321 views

📸 Capture the Details

Bring your camera to photograph the stunning stained glass and architectural elements. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Church Hill

The cathedral is part of a historic area; explore surrounding churches and architecture. Instagram+1

Anglican Cathedral of St. John’s the Baptist.
bhschang
15 likes • 134 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Take a Guided Tour

Gain deeper insights into the cathedral's history and architecture. Tours are highly recommended! Reddit

🤫 Speak Softly Inside

The acoustics are incredible; voices echo, so keep conversations hushed out of respect. Reddit

📸 Capture the Details

Bring your camera to photograph the stunning stained glass and architectural elements. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Church Hill

The cathedral is part of a historic area; explore surrounding churches and architecture. Instagram+1

📅 Check for Events

The cathedral hosts concerts and special ceremonies; check their schedule for unique experiences. Instagram+2

What Travellers Say

4.8
(143 reviews)

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

Stunning architecture
Beautiful stained glass
Rich history

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Seasonal tearoom hours

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. Reddit

Parking can be limited in the downtown area, especially during peak times. It's often best to walk or consider public transport if available. Reddit

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. Reddit

Walking is highly recommended to explore Church Hill and the surrounding historic buildings, including other notable churches and the Supreme Court. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

Photography is generally allowed inside, but it's important to be respectful of ongoing services or other visitors. Some areas might have specific restrictions. Reddit

🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience

The cathedral is a prime example of Gothic Revival architecture, characterized by its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and ornate detailing. Instagram

Don't miss the stunning stained-glass windows depicting biblical stories, the impressive wooden ceiling and arches, and the unique Ocean Labyrinth. InstagramReddit

Due to the impressive acoustics, voices can echo significantly. It's advised to speak softly to maintain a respectful atmosphere. Reddit

Yes, the cathedral frequently hosts concerts, musical performances, and special ceremonies. Checking their schedule can lead to a memorable experience. Instagram+2

The Ocean Labyrinth is an artistic installation inspired by ocean health and resilience, adding a contemporary and thought-provoking element to the historical site. Instagram

📸 📸 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. Reddit

Yes, videos are generally permitted, but always be mindful of ongoing services and other visitors. Capturing the ambient sounds can be surprisingly rewarding. Reddit

The cathedral's imposing Gothic Revival facade offers excellent exterior shots, especially from Church Hill, which also provides views of other historic buildings. Instagram+1

Morning light can beautifully illuminate the stained-glass windows, creating vibrant colors. However, the cathedral's ambiance is striking at any time. Reddit

Visitors often mention the goosebump-inducing effect of Jesus's face on a high pillar and the historical photographs displayed, showcasing early photographic techniques. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist offers a unique experience for families. While the solemnity of the space requires respectful behavior, the sheer scale and beauty of the architecture can captivate children. The stained-glass windows are particularly engaging, offering a visual storytelling opportunity. Consider a guided tour if your children are old enough to appreciate historical narratives; otherwise, a self-guided visit focusing on the visual elements might be more suitable. Reddit

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. Instagram

🚶 History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by history and architecture, the Anglican Cathedral of St. John's is a must-visit. Its Gothic Revival style offers a rich subject for study, with its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and detailed ornamentation. The cathedral's history of being rebuilt after numerous fires provides a compelling narrative of resilience and community spirit. Reddit

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. Instagram

🎶 Music Lovers

The Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is renowned for its exceptional acoustics, making it a sought-after venue for musical performances. If you have the opportunity, attending a concert or musical event here is highly recommended. Visitors have reported hearing the beautiful sounds of the organ pipes and other instruments resonating through the space, even when seemingly alone. InstagramReddit+2

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

The Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. This style, popular in the 19th century, draws inspiration from medieval Gothic cathedrals, emphasizing verticality, pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and intricate ornamentation. Visitors can admire the soaring wooden ceiling and arches, which create a sense of awe and grandeur. The detailed stonework and the overall imposing presence of the cathedral are hallmarks of this architectural movement. Instagram

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. Reddit

Resilience and Rebirth: A Cathedral's History

The history of the Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is deeply intertwined with the city's own narrative of resilience. St. John's has faced numerous devastating fires throughout its history, and the cathedral has been rebuilt multiple times, standing as a symbol of the community's enduring spirit. This history adds a profound layer to any visit, reminding visitors of the strength and perseverance of the people of St. John's. Reddit

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. Reddit

Artistic Expressions Within Sacred Walls

Beyond its architectural splendor, the cathedral serves as a venue for various artistic expressions. The stained-glass windows are not merely decorative but are intricate works of art that tell biblical stories, bathing the interior in colored light. Reddit Visitors are often moved by the artistry and the narratives depicted within these luminous panes.

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. Instagram+3 These artistic elements contribute to a multi-faceted experience, appealing to both spiritual and aesthetic sensibilities.

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