Temples & religious sites
St John the Baptist Church, Reid
Overview
Built in 1845, St John the Baptist Church is Canberra's oldest building and church. Travellers interested in early colonial history visit to see its sandstone structure and churchyard. Notably, the building incorporates medieval stonework brought from Canterbury Cathedral and Westminster Abbey.
Getting There
Located in Reid, the site is just east of Canberra's city centre. Walking from the city centre takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Alternatively, local public buses running along nearby avenues reach the area in approximately 5 to 10 minutes.
Time to Allow
Set aside 30 to 45 minutes to view the architectural details, inspect the embedded historical stonework, and walk through the grounds.
When to Visit
Daylight hours are best for viewing the exterior and grounds. It is rarely crowded, though interior access may be limited during active religious services or private ceremonies.
Nearby Attractions
You can combine a visit with several sights within easy walking distance:
- Royal Australian Air Force Memorial (0.3km)
- Commonwealth Park (0.4km)
- Royal Australian Navy Memorial (0.6km)
- Glebe Park (0.7km)
Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
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