About us

Grade 1 listed church

St John the Evangelist, Piddinghoe, is a unique and very special Grade 1 listed church which dates from the 12th Century and stands in the heart of the village of Piddinghoe. 

It is one of only three round tower churches in East Sussex and, unlike the other two, has bells which could be rung full circle. The church itself is built of flint and comprises a nave with aisles, chapels, and chancel with traditional and contemporary stained glass.

St. John’s sits in the beautiful South Downs National Park, and near to prospering Newhaven with its rich and thriving maritime history. 

Rudyard Kipling refers to Piddinghoe in his heartfelt poem ‘Sussex’ “where windy Piddinghoe’s begilded dolphin veers” referring to the unique weathervane which sits on the church spire. 

We pride ourselves on serving our local community with a blend of Anglican ministry and caring pastoral work.

St. John’s Piddinghoe is a place of contemplation, reflection and peace.

Baptism, Matrimony and Funeral Services

Holy Baptism, Matrimony and Funeral Services are held for members of the community and consideration is given to marriage requests under the new (2008) guidelines.

The churchyard is generally closed to new burials due to the lack of credible mapping of existing graves, but ashes of village residents can be interred in a limited area.

The churchyard is currently maintained by the friends of St. John’s Church.

Safeguarding

The church has an appropriately experienced Parish Safeguarding Officer and a policy statement.  

A formal statement of adoption of the House of Bishops ‘Promoting a Safer Church: Safeguarding Policy Statement’ is available and signed on behalf of the PCC.  

Information about how to contact the Safeguarding officer is displayed in the church.