Bristolian John Giles played for Exeter City between 1969 and 1972. He joined the club from Bristol City and later appeared for Bath City.

John progressed through the youth scheme at Bristol City to become an apprentice and then a full professional in June 1965. He made just three league appearances for the Ashton Gate club (scoring one goal) as well as having a loan spell with Bradford Park Avenue in March 1968.

Aged twenty-one, John joined Exeter City in May 1969 for a fee of £1,750 and went straight into the team to make his debut in the opening day of the season defeat at Wrexham. Appearing in 29 league gmaes during his first season at St James' Park, John had 18 league outings in his second campaign but only 13 in his third. 

On being given a free transfer by Exeter, John signed for Bath City in July 1972 where he was released after one season before playing for Keynsham Town.