St. John's Kirk
12 minute walk from Perth station · Stirling, Central and Fife
St. John's Kirk is a historic Category A listed Parish church located in the heart of Perth. Standing on a site used for worship since 1126, the current cruciform structure dates back to 1448. The city itself was originally named St Johns Toun after John the Baptist, to whom this significant building is dedicated.
The Kirk is famous as the site of John Knox’s 1559 sermon against idolatry, an event that sparked the Scottish Reformation. Over the centuries, it has hosted royalty including King Edward I, King Charles I, and Queen Elizabeth II. The building features the oldest choir in the city and a central tower that served as a model for St Machar's Cathedral.
Visitors can explore a wealth of historic treasures, including medieval holy water stoups, a 15th-century chandelier of the Virgin Mary, and a modern tapestry. The church boasts 63 bells, including a massive 1506 bourdon bell and the 14th-century Ave Maria bell. You can also admire stunning stained glass windows and the Knox Chapel, which serves as a poignant memorial.
Visitor information
- Place type
- Church
- Good for
- Architecture, Churches, abbeys & cathedrals, Local & social history
- Characteristics
- Listed, Medieval
- Admission
- Free
- Region
- Stirling, Central and Fife
Stations within walking distance
- Perth station — 12 min walk, 1.0 km
Other places near Perth
- St Leonards in the Fields & Trinity — 5 min walk from the station
- AK Bell Library — 7 min walk from the station
- Kinnoull Hill and Tower, Perth — 9 min walk from the station
- Perth City walk — 9 min walk from the station
- Perth North Church — 11 min walk from the station
- Perth Leisure Pool — 12 min walk from the station