The church was designed in the Gothic Revival Style by Victorian architect John Loughborough Pearson, who is known for his work on many churches and cathedrals, including Truro Cathedral and St Augustine’s, Kilburn. The building of St John’s was begun in 1891, but work was delayed due to lack of funds, and the church was finally completed and consecrated in 1911. Inspired by the spirit of the Middle Ages, Pearson was a master in the use of vaulting and creating vistas.

Particularly beautiful are the weblike conoids
of the vaults in the sanctuary apse, which form deep recesses lit by the glowing colour of the windows in the upper nave.

The stained-glass windows throughout the church were designed by specialist firm Clayton and Bell. The windows are of particular interest, affording the church the Grade II* listing.