World Heritage at St. Johns
So much to see and do
Free of charge and right on people’s doorstep, Heritage Open Days is an event for everyone, whatever their background, age and ability. From castles to city halls, tunnels to tower tops, police cells to private homes, workshops to woodland walks, the variety of places and ways to discover them are endless.
Joint venture
Heritage Open Days is organised by a huge network of people who share a passion for places, history and culture. Locally, over 1,400 organisations and some 40,000 volunteers organise thousands of site openings and events, jointly attracting over 1 million visitors. They make Heritage Open Days England’s biggest voluntary cultural event.
Heritage Open Days celebrates what makes local communities and neighbourhoods special. By stimulating curiosity and discovery, the event connects people with their local places and helps foster a sense of belonging and pride. Opening doors, eyes and minds.
The sanctuary mosaic cost four thousand pounds and was designed by Eric Newton, son of Ludwig Oppenheimer and Edith Newton, and was completed on 31st October 1933. The central figure being that of Christ the King, a feast day established by Pope Pius XI, his Papal Coat of Arms and the Coat of Arms of Bishop Henshaw are on the side walls.
We have extensive information leading back to when the Church was first built with photos of previous clergy, parishioners and much more. For those younger children who come along with parents we have colouring guides where you can colour and create your own mosaic and other various activities. Drinks and Refreshments are provided.
This year, we have extended our opening times to allow for more people to have the opportunity to visit the church and appreciate the heritage within it. We would like to encourage groups from schools, art appreciation societies, indeed anyone! For information on our opening times and to arrange a visit, please see the 'World Heritage Open Days 2021' section on St. John's website: