Rowing began at St John's College in October 1910 when trials were held to select a crew for a IV.

In 1911, however, the boat house was built thanks to the help of Revd Watts-Ditchfield who telling commented, "we have not won anything yet but can see improvements."

In the 1930s James Atkinson likewise made a great impression on rowing at St John's, captaining for both SJCBC and the University.

[5] The club is entirely run by students and attracts most of its members from St John's College – though anyone can join with the permission of the Captain of Boats.

St. John’s College Boat Club has wins in Hexham, Durham City and York Regattas.