Heritage Open Days
Opening of St. John's Chapter House
Address: Parish Church of St John the Baptist, Little St. John Street, Vicar's Lane, Chester. CH11QX
Opening of St. John's Chapter House
Join Simon to venture into St John’s Chapter House and discover its medieval sandstone vaulting and ancient artefacts including a collection of carved stone bosses.
Situated next to the eastern ruins, the Chapter House was the meeting place of the clergy when St John’s was a collegiate church. As such a church, worship was through a college of canons – a non-monastic community of clergy.
The eastern ruins of the church and the unused Chapter House are a legacy of the Reformation. The eastern part of St John’s was demolished in the 16th century. After the Dissolution it became a parish church, but the building was too big for just its parishioners.
Please note that the Chapter House being open is subject to suitable weather and may not be open if wet.
This is a drop-in event and booking is not required.
A system will be in place to organise entry in batches should there be large numbers seeking to visit the Chapter House.
The Church is open from 11am if you wish to visit. There will be a drop-in concert by the Dunelm Duo from 1pm and guided tours will be taking place in the afternoon. There will be a talk entitled A Trek through Triassic Chester at 7.30pm-8.45pm by Paul Hyde. Tours and talk are bookable via eventbrite.
Please note that refreshments will be available from the café inside the main church to purchase prior to or after visiting the Chapter House – there will be a small charge (proceeds go to St John’s).
FAQ's
Where can we park?
There is no parking at the church. Various locations around the city plus Park & Ride.
Details can be obtained from the following webpages:
Car Parks in Chester:
Information about our Park and Ride service.
Is the venue or planned route fully accessible (without steps, rough ground, steep gradients)?
Not accessible The Chapter House has uneven surfaces and many artefacts making it problematic for wheelchair users. The route to the Chapter House also involves negotiating steps and loose gravel paths.
Is this event suitable for children?
This event is not aimed at children although some children will love to explore the historical space. all children under 16 should be accompanied by an adult.
Is this event dog friendly?
Assistance Dogs are welcome at this event.