An opportunity to look around this small ancient church, which dates back before the Domesday book. With the help of a guided tour learn about its rich history and how it has been a landmark in the village of North Baddesley for many centuries.

St. John the Baptist is an ancient church recorded in the Domesday Book. In 1304 the Knights Hospitallers acquired the church with the right to appoint the incumbent and in 1348 North Baddesley became the HQ of the Knights Hospitallers (Order of the Knights of St. Johns) remaining there until the Dissolution of the Monasteries. As is common the church has been repeatedly amended and rebuilt over the years. There is evidence of Roman bricks in the foundations of the church indicating that there may have been a Roman building in the vicinity which was robbed to provide building for the church. In 1986 major refurbishment took place and the nave roof was impressively decorated in the medieval style. The tour will tell the history of the building but also point out the medieval graffiti and how this ancient building has served as a place of worship and pilgrimage over thousands of years.

Timings & Tours 

Sunday 14 September: 3pm - 4pm

Location & directions 

Directions: The church is a little way outside the village of North Baddesley and can be found by driving up Nutburn Road proceeding up a hill which goes round a sharp bend and the church is on your left. https://w3w.co/throwaway.owes.booms

Contact on day: Sally Kerson

Accessibility Details

This is an ancient church and therefore there are no toilets on site or places for refreshments, but a good sized car park. It is a hidden treasure and visitors will enjoy the breathtaking view from the churchyard of the Hampshire Countryside.

Additional Information

This is an ancient religious site and we do ask visitors to be respectful of their surroundings.

Booking information 

Pre-booking requirement: Prebooking preferred

Booking opens: 08 Aug 2025 12:00 AM

Booking closes: 12 Sep 2025 12:00 AM

Max no of people per tour: 20

Est. tour duration: 1 hours