Brief History
The present church stands on the site of an earlier Episcopalian chapel, consecrated in 1825 by Bishop Sandford (after whom nearby Sandford Gardens is named). The building was purchased by the Catholic Church in 1833 ten years later, serving a remarkably large parish that at that time stretched across East Lothian, Berwickshire, Roxburghshire, Selkirkshire, and parts of Midlothian.
As the Catholic population of Portobello grew, the need for a larger church became clear. The original building was demolished, and the current church was completed and opened in 1906, becoming a lasting spiritual and architectural landmark in East Edinburgh.
1825
Earlier Episcopalian chapel consecrated by Bishop Sandford
1833
Building purchased by the Catholic Church; parish served a wide region
1906
Current church completed and opened
1906
Current church completed and opened
The Church Building
St John the Evangelist is a Category A–listed church, designed by architect J. T. Walford, and is widely recognised as one of Portobello’s most distinctive historic buildings.
- The most striking external feature is the 130-foot tower, a well-known Portobello landmark, clearly visible from trains on the East Coast Main Line.
- Inside, the church is built in the Gothic style, comprising a nave, two aisles, side chapels, sanctuary, and baptistery.
- The High Altar, made of white alabaster, features a depiction of the Last Supper, inspired by the school of Fra Angelico.
- The octagonal nave piers are carved with angels bearing Latin inscriptions, including:
“Thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church.” - Above the High Altar, the stained-glass windows depicting the Nativity, Crucifixion, and Resurrection were created by Edward Frampton.
The church is also home to a stone statue of the Sacred Heart, gifted recently to the parish and sculpted by renowned Scottish Catholic sculptor Hew Lorimer.
Together, these features make St John’s a place of interest for visitors exploring historic churches in Edinburgh, religious architecture, and sacred art.
The Parish Today
Today, St John the Evangelist, Portobello, is a vibrant and active Catholic parish at the heart of the local community. We work closely with our sister parish, St Mary Magdalene’s, Bingham, and are part of PACT – Portobello & Area Christians Together, fostering strong ecumenical links with the other local Christian churches.
The parish is known for its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to:
- Social justice and peace
- Environmental responsibility as an Eco-Congregation
- Support for those in need through the St Vincent de Paul Society
In addition it works closely with St John’s RC Primary School and Holy Rood High School.
Recent years have seen major conservation work, including tower repairs, exterior refurbishment, and the installation of a modern lighting system, made possible through the generosity of parishioners, the local community, and grants from Historic Environment Scotland, The National Churches Trust, and The Wolfson Trust.
A Place to Visit in Portobello
Whether you are a tourist visiting Portobello Beach, a pilgrim, an architecture enthusiast, or someone simply seeking a quiet moment away from the bustle of Edinburgh, St John the Evangelist Church offers a space of beauty, history, and peace. You are always welcome.