St John the Baptist Church Burslem
Explore the ancient St. John the Baptist Church, the oldest in Stoke-on-Trent, famed for Mollie Leigh's witch grave and the resting place of pottery m...
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St John the Baptist Church Burslem
Best Time
Explore history and legends
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the ancient St. John the Baptist Church, the oldest in Stoke-on-Trent, famed for Mollie Leigh's witch grave and the resting place of pottery masters.
"Discover the intriguing legend of Mollie Leigh and the rich history of Stoke-on-Trent's pottery pioneers."
🔍 Seek Out Mollie Leigh's Tomb
Locate the unique north-south aligned grave of Mollie Leigh, the reputed witch, a key point of interest for visitors.
📜 Learn Local Lore
Engage with the church's history, including tales of Mollie Leigh and the many potters interred here.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mollie Leigh's Witch Grave
Churchyard
Visit the legendary tomb of Mollie Leigh, a figure of local folklore, with its uniquely north-south axis.
Graves of Pottery Masters
Churchyard
Discover the final resting places of many of Stoke-on-Trent's renowned potters, connecting with the area's industrial heritage.
Ancient Entrance
Church Entrance
Admire the historic entrance doorway, a remnant of the church's long and storied past.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔍 Seek Out Mollie Leigh's Tomb
Locate the unique north-south aligned grave of Mollie Leigh, the reputed witch, a key point of interest for visitors.
📜 Learn Local Lore
Engage with the church's history, including tales of Mollie Leigh and the many potters interred here.
🤝 Warm Welcome Awaits
Experience a friendly atmosphere, though note that the church, as one of the oldest in Stoke-on-Trent, may show signs of age.
Tips
from all over the internet
🔍 Seek Out Mollie Leigh's Tomb
Locate the unique north-south aligned grave of Mollie Leigh, the reputed witch, a key point of interest for visitors.
📜 Learn Local Lore
Engage with the church's history, including tales of Mollie Leigh and the many potters interred here.
🤝 Warm Welcome Awaits
Experience a friendly atmosphere, though note that the church, as one of the oldest in Stoke-on-Trent, may show signs of age.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the historical depth of St. John the Baptist Church, particularly the intriguing legend of Mollie Leigh and her unique grave. The church's status as the oldest in Stoke-on-Trent and its connection to the pottery industry are also highlighted as significant draws. Some note that while the history is rich, the building's appearance may be more standard in parts, and funding is needed for preservation.
"A grade 11 listed building with a history going back as far as 1536. It contains the grave of Margaret (or Mollie) Leigh (died 1748), who was reputed to be a witch. Her tomb has its axis set north–south. It is thought that it was re-orientated by the rector of St John's (who had earlier officiated at the funeral) in order to lay her ghost to rest, after a rumour that she had been seen after her death."
Heidi Lomax
"I went here to see the upside down grave of molly Lea the witch"
Ellie Lomax
"Molly Leigh was she really a witch. Some historians say not but then who would bother visiting this church to see her grave if she was just a old spinster. The entrance doorway to church is old but the rest of church looks like bog standard brick. Sorry."
Tim Lamb
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. John the Baptist Church is located in Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent. Visitors can typically reach Burslem via local bus routes or by car. Parking availability may vary, so checking local parking regulations beforehand is advisable.
Yes, Burslem is served by local bus services. It's recommended to check current bus timetables for routes and stops closest to the church.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
St. John the Baptist Church is a historic site, and typically, there is no entrance fee for visitors to explore the church and its grounds. Donations are often welcome to support its upkeep.
Opening hours can vary, especially for historic churches. It's best to check with local sources or the church directly for the most up-to-date visiting times.
Yes, the churchyard is generally accessible and is a significant part of the historical interest, particularly for visiting graves like Mollie Leigh's.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
This Grade II listed building is the oldest church in Stoke-on-Trent, with a history dating back to 1536. It's known as the 'Potter's Church' for its many graves of famous potters.
Mollie Leigh's grave is famous because she was reputed to be a witch. Her tomb is uniquely oriented on a north-south axis, believed by some to have been done to 'lay her ghost to rest'.
Indeed, the churchyard is the resting place for many notable figures from Stoke-on-Trent's pottery industry, offering a connection to the area's heritage.
While the church has a long history, parts of it may appear as standard brick construction. However, it retains an ancient entrance doorway and significant historical features.
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The Legend of Mollie Leigh
While some historians question the 'witch' label, suggesting she may have been misunderstood or ostracized due to disabilities or social standing, the enduring legend continues to captivate. Visiting her grave offers a tangible connection to the superstitions and beliefs of past eras, making it a unique aspect of the church's historical narrative.
A Potter's Resting Place
Exploring these graves provides a poignant link to the artisans, innovators, and entrepreneurs who built the local economy. It's a chance to reflect on the legacy of craftsmanship and industry that defines this part of Staffordshire, making a visit to the churchyard a journey through both local history and the evolution of ceramic arts.
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