St John the Baptist Church, Buxton, -Heritage Open Days

Grade II star Regency church with decorated chancel and fine stained-glass windows. Highlighting connections with the Dukes of Devonshire and local music making. Informal free recitals on the 4-manual William Hill organ during HOD opening hours.

The Parish Church of St John the Baptist owes its existence to the generosity of the 5th Duke of Devonshire who in 1811 petitioned the Dean and Chapter of Lichfield for powers to build a new church; these were granted and the duke’s final benefaction to the town, as he died later the same year, was St. John the Baptist church.

Architect, John White, designed the church in the Tuscan style with an open portico at the east end. This was extended in 1896 to include a chancel at the east end in the space between the present east wall and the outside portico.
The simple Regency architecture outside gives little hint of the glories that await inside. The first impression is one of awe-inspiring spaciousness with no pillars to interfere with the view of the altar and chancel. With its only remaining Georgian window and glorious stained-glass windows including five by C.E. Kempe, the Victorian artist with a considerable reputation; three of these windows are identified by the mark of a wheatsheaf. Also of interest are the marble and alabaster pulpit, the memorial tablets, the Cross representing the six churches in the team parish, and the 4-manual William Hill organ. Look out for details of free organ recitals on some days.

The churchyard is no longer used for burials. A recent addition, suitable for quiet contemplation, is the garden of remembrance with its pillars mimicking those at the east end of the church and its small fountain which complete the air of quietness.

Timings & Tours

Friday 12 September:

Opening 1100 - 1500

Saturday 13 September:

Opening 1100 - 1500

Sunday 14 September:

Opening 1300 - 1500

Monday 15 September:

Opening 1100 - 1500

Tuesday 16 September:

Opening 1100 - 1500

Wednesday 17 September:

Opening 1100 - 1500

Thursday 18 September:

Opening 1100 - 1500

Friday 19 September:

Opening 1100 - 1500

Saturday 20 September:

Opening 1100 - 1500

Sunday 21 September:

Opening 1300 - 1500