Colerne, the village on the hill, adjacent to the boundary of Wiltshire and Somerset. Here sits an impressive structure, the church of St John the Baptist. First entering history in 1190 the current structure is largely of 15'th century appearance with the benefit of an extensive restoration in the 19'th century. The archetypical English country church St Johns shows its proximity with the Somerset border in the form of its tower, a far more delicate structure than those found on churches to the East.
The form of the church evolved over the years, the east end of the nave dates from around 1190, in 1240 the chancel and south aisle was added, 1280 saw the north aisle and a chapel added. The restoration in the 15'th century saw the church lengthened and the tower added. Fragments of a Saxon cross were found during the 19'th century restoration.
St John the Baptist occupies a large churchyard extending from the centre of the village and enjoying considerable views. It is normally open and access is through the west (tower) door.
Photographed in June 2010 for theChurchPhotographer by Nick Temple-Fry.
