Today and into the future

If you are able to visit St John's you will find an open building which is in a constant state of repair and restoration. The post-war repairs were not as good as modern repairs nor as sensitive. But with help from visitors we can afford the repair of this iconic building and who knows one day we might finish the spire. If you want to contribute all donations are welcome.

What to expect

St John's has stood as a place of worship, music, and community for over 125 years, and on Saturday 19 September we're throwing open our doors as part of Open House Festival to share this remarkable building with everyone.

From 12.30pm, guided walking tours of the building depart every hour, led by knowledgeable volunteers with printed guidebooks to take away. Discover the story of architect John Loughborough Pearson's grand design, completed in 1887, explore the church's remarkable artefacts, and hear about the community's resilience through wartime bomb damage and ongoing restoration. Tours are free and unticketed — simply arrive and join the next one.

Whether you come for the architecture or simply curiosity, St John's offers a rare chance to experience a building that has been at the heart of Upper Norwood life since the 1870s. Find us at Sylvan Road, SE19 2RX.