St John’s Foundation – Changing Lives for 850 Years
As one of the UK’s oldest charities, St John’s Foundation has served Bath and its surrounding communities for over 850 years. For centuries, the Charity has supported the local community, with a clear purpose: to change the lives of under-served people, for good.
Founded by Bishop Reginald Fitzjocelyn as a place of refuge for those facing hardship, St John’s was established to provide shelter, care and dignity to people in need. That founding purpose still shapes the charity today.
While the world around it has evolved, St John’s mission remains rooted in practical support. Today, the charity focuses on providing almshouse accommodation for older people, alongside targeted help for individuals and families experiencing financial hardship across Bath and North East Somerset. This includes crisis support for people facing sudden or acute challenges, ensuring help reaches those who need it most.
House of St John’s – a building with purpose
One of the most remarkable assets supporting St John’s work is No. 1 Queen Square, a striking Georgian townhouse at the heart of the city. Bequeathed to the charity in 1953 by descendants of Dick Whittington, the building has been carefully cared for over generations.
Today, it is home to the House of St John’s – a place where historic character meets contemporary use. Original features such as fireplaces, ceiling coving and sash windows sit alongside thoughtfully designed modern interiors, creating bright, elegant spaces that feel both welcoming and distinctive.
Following a full, sympathetic refurbishment, the House opened in 2022 as a flexible workspace and events venue, designed to support the local community through the income it generates. Every membership, meeting, event and celebration hosted at the House helps fund St John’s mission – creating safe homes, stability and support for people across Bath.
A place to work, meet and celebrate
The House of St John’s offers a range of flexible workspace options, including co-working and dedicated desks, alongside beautifully appointed meeting rooms and event spaces. Designed to support both focus and connection, the House brings together individuals and organisations who value quality, community and purpose.
Members enjoy access to light-filled spaces overlooking Queen Square, thoughtful shared areas, and a warm, professional House team who ensure the experience feels personal and well run. Meeting rooms are available for hourly or daily hire, offering a calm, central setting for client meetings, workshops and away days.
The House is also an increasingly sought-after venue for intimate weddings and special events. With its Georgian proportions, elegant parquet floors and flexible layout, it provides a refined backdrop for celebrations that feel both relaxed and distinctive. Since hosting its first wedding in 2025, the House has welcomed a growing number of couples, with consistently positive feedback.
More than a workspace
What sets the House of St John’s apart is its purpose. This is not just a place to work or celebrate, but a place that gives back.
As part of St John’s Hospital Trading Company, profits from the House are returned to the charity to support its work across Bath and North East Somerset. Choosing the House means becoming part of a much bigger story – one rooted in a commitment that has endured for more than 850 years.
To find out more about the House of St John’s or to book a tour, click here.