Church of St John the Baptist, Wellington

The Church of St John the Baptist stands in Wellington, Somerset. Built in the 15th century, it is a Grade I listed building. The tower dates from around 1510. The church replaced an earlier one dedicated to St Mary the Virgin. Its organ was rebuilt in 1997, replacing an instrument installed about 1700. During the 19th century, the church underwent several restorations. The Lady chapel’s east window features a Lily crucifix, a rare carving in Anglican churches. The church holds notable historical items. A monument commemorates John Popham, who died in 1607 after serving as Speaker of the House of Commons, Attorney General and Lord Chief Justice of England. The tomb of Richard of Wellington, a 14th-century priest, bears the first epitaph written in English, replacing earlier Latin versions. The church is part of the Wellington and District Team Ministry within the Diocese of Bath and Wells. Inside, visitors find a space shaped by centuries of use. The organ, rebuilt in 1997, fills the church with music during services. The Lily crucifix in the Lady chapel draws attention for its rarity. The monument to John Popham and the early English epitaph on Richard of Wellington’s tomb highlight the church’s historical significance. The building’s restored features reflect its long presence in the community.