Thousands walk past the red brick of Clerkenwell’s Museum of the Order of St John, with its large dominating arches and its gardens without ever wondering inside.
Beyond those large, mahogany doors there is a labyrinth – the building houses a 12th Century crypt and museum, dating back over 100 years. Located on St Johns Lane, the museum has now been recognized by VisitEngland as one of the country’s hidden gems.
For more than a century, tourists have been welcomed at St. John’s Gate. A bronze cannon donated by Henry VIII, paintings and illuminated manuscripts, rare Armour, ancient coins, ornate furniture, ceramics, jewellery, and textiles are among its treasures.
VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said: “It’s so exciting to see brilliant attractions providing outstanding experiences for visitors and to recognize and showcase the variety and quality across the country, St Johns always provide the warmest of welcomes and provide a whole experience that exceeds expectations.”
The Museum of the Order of St. John closed in September 2009 to begin a £3.6 million Heritage Lottery funded renovation.
It reopened 14 months later with expanded galleries and visitor amenities, including a designated learning room that enables the offering of various seminars and activities for community organisations and schools.
Rachel Job, Collections and Engagement Officer at the Museum, said: “The Museum is delighted to have been awarded VisitEngland’s Hidden Gem Accolade this year. We are one of just two attractions in London to have received this accolade this year, the other being our fellow Islington venue, the Estorick Collection. Receiving the accolade has been a great boost and is testament to the hard work of our team.”
