An early 16th Century hearth-passage house – the oldest habitable dwelling in Bridgend with a history spanning over 500 years
Recently, stone tiles have begun falling from the roof. Because the building sits directly beside a public footpath, this poses a serious risk to pedestrians. Emergency scaffolding has now been erected to prevent injury, and a professional report has confirmed that the roof is in poor condition and requires urgent repair to make the building safe. The essential work is estimated at £5,000, so we are asking the community — and anyone who values Bridgend’s heritage — to help us safeguard this unique building. Any donation, large or small, will directly support the repair project and ensure St John’s House remains standing for future generations.
Thank you for helping protect a piece of Bridgend’s history.
It's a busy month in St Johns House! We are open on 4 dates - September 13th, 19th, 26th and 27th. We have a new exhibition of paintings from David Robinson Art on our open days in September and October. Our artist in residence Timothy Lewis will be in the house on 13th and 26th September with forest school activities for children. The archers are going to be in St Johns House on 19th September. September 19th is also when St John's House is open as part of 'Open Bridgend'. We are open for two days on the final weekend of September as part of CADW Open Doors. And of course September is Ogwr History Month.
We are pleased to welcome David Robinson, the celebrated Porthcawl artist to St John's House. David has exhibited his work across the UK and paintings of his will be on display in the exhibition space throughout September and October on our open days.
We are so pleased with the triptych designed and sewn by BridgeCrafters, a local group of talented crafters. The centrepiece is a stunning Tudor rose, with panels on the side depicting Welsh themes. It is now hanging permanently in the Great Hall. BridgeCrafters have designed and produced a wall hanging now sitting to the left of the fireplace in the Great Hall.
Our St John's House digital guide on Bloomberg Connects is now live and available free to all. Curious to know more? Explore the guide in St John's House when you visit or at home in the comfort of your armchair. St John's House is proud to join over 1250 international museums, galleries, gardens and cultural spaces on Bloomberg Connects.
We have planned a number of events for 2026 and have others in the pipeline. Have a look at our ‘What’s on’ page and make sure you don’t miss out. Tickets for events will be advertised on this website, Facebook and through our newsletter as they become available.
The house is open from 11am to 3pm on the last Saturday and the second Sunday of each month.
Our volunteers will give you the fascinating background of this historic building as they guide you around the house.
We are free to visit (although we do welcome donations).
We look forward to seeing you!
