timeline.
Bringing people together since 1892
Constructed in 1892, our church was built to meet the growing need for new places of worship as urbanisation and population growth reshaped communities. Today, we remain a vibrant and integral part of Adlington, continuing to enrich lives through faith, fellowship, and charity. So, how did we get here? Take a journey through our history and discover how we’ve evolved over the last 130+ years.
1892
Humble beginnings
St John’s Church was built from a £150 flat-pack kit by Francis Morton & Co. to serve farm and estate workers who had no easy access to the main parish church. Known as a “tin tabernacle” for its corrugated iron structure, it soon became a focal point for both worship and community life in Adlington.
1914-1918
World War 1
…add text here
1939-1945
World War 2
…add text here
1992
St John's celebrates its 100th birthday!
In 1992, the church celebrated its 100th anniversary—a century of worship, community, and service in Adlington. To mark the occasion, special centenary cushions were made. It was a time to honour the church’s rich history and look ahead with hope to the future.
1995
Community & heritage
2000
Millennium celebration
To mark the millennium, a beautiful appliqué artwork was lovingly crafted by members of the community and proudly displayed on the church wall, where it still hangs today. Rich in charm and detail, the piece includes a delightful miniature version of the church on the left-hand side.
2019
Celebrating 50 years of Margaret Tate
Margaret Tate came to the end of her active ministry after over fifty years at St John’s.
2020
Thinking bigger
Our volunteer-run coffee shop opened as a way to support our little Tin Church—helping it stay open, cover essential costs, and continue serving the community.
2021
A beautiful legacy
A generous member of the church left a substantial legacy in her will. The committee is carefully managing these funds to ensure they are spent responsibly and effectively.
2024
Looking to the future: Our new extension
We worked closely with a trusted local builder to design and construct a new kitchen and storage extension for the church. This much-needed addition not only supports the day-to-day running of St John’s but also makes a big difference to the operation of the coffee shop—giving volunteers the space and facilities they need to serve the community more efficiently and comfortably.
2025
Growing and growing
Our shiny new website launched, and both our congregation and coffee shop were busier than ever!
donate money.
Will you donate to our causes?
Invest in the church and the other local causes that we support. Invest in your neighbourhood. Invest in a stronger community.
donate time.
Share your time, share your love for community
We’re always looking for new volunteers to help us run our community coffee shop.