St. Paul's Anglican Cathedral
An iconic masterpiece of English Baroque architecture by Sir Christopher Wren, offering stunning city views and a rich historical tapestry.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
St. Paul's Anglican Cathedral
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic masterpiece of English Baroque architecture by Sir Christopher Wren, offering stunning city views and a rich historical tapestry.
"A masterpiece of architecture with breathtaking views and a profound sense of history."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs to reach the dome. :athletic_shoe:
Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the cathedral and its galleries. :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Dome & Whispering Gallery
Interior
Ascend to the Whispering Gallery for a unique acoustic experience and climb higher for stunning city vistas.
Baroque Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Marvel at Sir Christopher Wren's masterpiece, a stunning example of English Baroque architecture.
Crypt & Tombs
Underground
Explore the resting place of national heroes like Admiral Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington.
Stunning Mosaics and Artwork
Interior
Admire the intricate mosaics and impressive artwork that adorn the cathedral's grand interior.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Best Time to Visit for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs to reach the dome. :athletic_shoe:
Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the cathedral and its galleries. :clock1:
Check for Events
See if there are any special services, concerts, or exhibitions happening during your visit. :musical_note:
Visit the Roof Terrace
For iconic photos, head to the One New Change Centre's roof terrace. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs to reach the dome. :athletic_shoe:
Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the cathedral and its galleries. :clock1:
Check for Events
See if there are any special services, concerts, or exhibitions happening during your visit. :musical_note:
Visit the Roof Terrace
For iconic photos, head to the One New Change Centre's roof terrace. :camerawithflash:
Consider an Audio Guide
Enhance your understanding of the history and architecture with an audio guide. :headphones:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St. Paul's Cathedral for its breathtaking Baroque architecture and the awe-inspiring views from its dome. The historical significance and the beauty of the interior, including the mosaics and crypt, are frequently highlighted. Some reviews mention the need for funds for renovation and express concern over vandalism, but the overall sentiment remains highly positive regarding the experience and the helpfulness of staff.
"A small but beautiful Church in Gothic Revival style was built in 1883.Its Bell Tower is in Norman style.This successfully resisted the 1912 Regina Tonado; rather, it provided shelter to other damaged churches.Was elevated to Cathedral in 1973.Badly needs funds for renovation and landscaping.Sad to learn through social media that historic stainedglass windows were broken by unknown people.Motive not known.God show them the right path..."
Khalid Omar
"This church is fantastic and people so nice and helpful … I was so lost but they helped me with my taxes and I was so grateful & appreciate their time and energy! I pray these wonderful people are around again to help"
Christina Brown
"Awesome place to worship and praise God. Great community to fellowship with one another in love."
KELECHI UWANDU
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Paul's Cathedral is easily accessible via public transport. The nearest Tube station is St. Paul's on the Central Line. Numerous bus routes also stop nearby. Many visitors enjoy walking to the cathedral, especially if they are exploring other City of London landmarks.
Yes, St. Paul's Cathedral is centrally located in the City of London, making it a great starting point for exploring areas like the Millennium Bridge, Tate Modern, and the Tower of London.
Driving in central London can be challenging due to traffic and parking restrictions. It's generally recommended to use public transport. If you do drive, there are several car parks in the vicinity, but they can be expensive.
The closest Tube station is St. Paul's on the Central Line. It's just a short walk from the station to the cathedral entrance.
Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended to learn about the cathedral's rich history and architecture. You can also explore independently with an audio guide.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, but booking online in advance is often recommended to secure your spot and potentially save money. Check the official website for the most current admission fees.
Opening hours can vary, especially on Sundays due to services. It's best to check the official St. Paul's Cathedral website for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and families. It's advisable to check the official website or inquire directly for any concessionary rates.
Yes, attending a regular Sunday service is free of charge and a wonderful way to experience the cathedral's spiritual atmosphere and hear its renowned choir.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Whispering Gallery is famous for its acoustics; a whisper on one side can be heard clearly on the opposite side, over 100 feet away. It's a unique experience!
Yes, you can climb to the Stone and Golden Galleries at the top of the dome for spectacular panoramic views of London. Be prepared for many stairs!
Inside, you'll find stunning mosaics, the tombs of famous figures in the Crypt, the beautiful Nave, and the iconic dome.
The main floor of the cathedral is accessible. However, access to the galleries and crypt may be limited for those with mobility challenges due to the numerous stairs.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but without flash. Always check for any specific signage or restrictions within certain areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located within the cathedral premises, offering refreshments and light meals.
The area around St. Paul's Cathedral has a variety of cafes, restaurants, and pubs catering to different tastes and budgets. The One New Change shopping centre nearby also offers numerous dining choices.
While you can usually bring water, it's best to consume full meals outside the main cathedral area. Check their specific policies regarding outside food.
There is no strict dress code for the cafe, but visitors are expected to be respectfully dressed when inside the cathedral itself.
The cafe typically offers a range of options, including vegetarian choices. Vegan options may be available, but it's advisable to inquire directly.
📸 📸 Photography
For iconic shots, head to the roof terrace of the One New Change Centre.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but without flash. Be mindful of any restrictions in specific areas.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer beautiful light for photography. Clear days provide the best visibility for panoramic shots from the dome.
Tripods are usually not permitted inside the cathedral to avoid obstructing other visitors. Always check the latest regulations.
Focus on the intricate mosaics, the grand dome's interior, the detailed carvings, and the stained-glass windows for stunning architectural shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing an audio guide designed for younger visitors if available, or focus on the stories of the heroes buried in the crypt. To make the visit smoother, plan for breaks and ensure everyone has comfortable shoes. The cafe offers a convenient spot for snacks.
🚶 Budget Travelers
For those who wish to explore the full site, booking tickets online in advance can sometimes offer better rates.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Inside, focus on the intricate mosaics, the play of light through the stained-glass windows, and the vastness of the dome's interior. Remember that flash photography is generally not permitted inside.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of Sir Christopher Wren
+1 Wren's design famously incorporates a triple-shelled dome, a feat of engineering for its time, which allows for both an impressive interior volume and a striking exterior silhouette against the London skyline. The cathedral's construction was a monumental undertaking, taking 35 years to complete. Wren's vision was not just about creating a place of worship, but also a symbol of London's resilience and rebirth. The intricate details, from the soaring columns to the ornate carvings, reflect a deep understanding of classical forms blended with Baroque dynamism.
Visitors often marvel at the sheer scale and beauty of the building, with many noting its unique character compared to other London landmarks. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the cathedral's design also incorporates innovative acoustic features, most famously the Whispering Gallery. This circular walkway, located about 100 feet up inside the dome, allows a whisper to be heard clearly on the opposite side, a testament to Wren's meticulous planning.
Exploring the cathedral offers a journey through architectural history, showcasing a masterpiece that has stood the test of time and continues to inspire awe. Ascending to the Top: The Dome Experience
The Stone Gallery is the first accessible level, offering a closer perspective of the dome's exterior structure and good views of the immediate surroundings. Continuing upwards, the Golden Gallery provides a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the sprawling city. From this vantage point, you can spot iconic landmarks like the Shard, the Tower of London, and the Houses of Parliament.
It's a popular spot for photographers and anyone wanting to grasp the vastness of London. It's important to note that the climb involves a significant number of stairs (over 500 in total), and the pathways can be narrow in places.
A Place of History and Remembrance
The Crypt beneath the cathedral is a solemn space housing the tombs of many distinguished figures. Among them are national heroes like Admiral Lord Nelson, the Duke of Wellington, and Sir Christopher Wren himself.
Beyond its historical significance, St. Paul's also plays a vital role in the community. It hosts regular services, concerts, and events, continuing its tradition as a spiritual heart for London.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit