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The west front and tower from the High Street

This photograph © St John the Baptist's Church, taken from a postcard on sale on behalf of their church funds.

The present building dates from 1822 when it replaced an ancient building which had Saxon arches and Norman work.  The present walls follow the plan of that mediaeval church and old vaults lie beneath the present floor, while many old memorials were retained and positioned upon the modern walls.

The ancient church of St John the Baptist was probably built soon after Henry I moved the Royal Court to the Castle site from Old Windsor.  Reference to it by Henry II clearly establish that in 1184 the church had been in existence sometime, and had had previous incumbents.

By the 18th century the church was a "vast building with 10 side altars and several chantries".  In 1818 the high cost of repairs to the old building brought forward plans for a complete rebuild at a cost of £14,000.  Between 1820 - 1822 the new church was erected with Gharles Hollis the architect.  Cast iron columns and ribs support a roof of 84ft x 60 ft.  It was consecrated on June 22nd, 1822 by the Bishop of Salisbury.  The Chancel and Apse were added in 1870.