Church Of St John The Baptist

The Church of St John the Baptist, located on Wood Street, is a Grade II* listed building that was extensively altered around 1873-1875 by architect William Butterfield. The church incorporates a mid-15th century structure as its double north aisle and features flint construction with stone dressings arranged in bands and chequerwork. It has an imposing west tower and a timber fleche designed by Traylen. Inside, the church is plastered, with a nave roof that is double framed and collar-braced, supported by closely spaced scissor-braced rafters. The roof of the 15th-century building has a flat panelled ceiling. Notable interior features include a font cover, altar, and reredos made of stone and Purbeck marble, all crafted by Butterfield between 1880 and 1882. The church also boasts an elaborately carved pulpit and a unique set of carved pew-ends, both by Traylen, as well as an organ by Hill from around 1876. The Ravenscroft Chapel, located in the south aisle, contains a fine 17th-century alabaster effigy of Thomas Ravenscroft, a local benefactor. The stained glass in the north and south aisles was created by Henry Holiday in a good Arts and Crafts style between 1887 and 1889.