
All Hallows by the Tower
London's oldest church (675 AD), a survivor of fires & wars, with Roman floors and Saxon arches.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

All Hallows by the Tower
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
London's oldest church (675 AD), a survivor of fires & wars, with Roman floors and Saxon arches.
"An incredible find with such history, founded in 675!! Just amazing."

⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush! Explore the crypt and church thoroughly; it's more than just a quick stop .
💰 Free entry, donate!
Entry is free, but donations are vital for preservation. Give what you can!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Roman Crypt Museum
Crypt
Step onto 2nd-century Roman floor tiles and discover Saxon artifacts in this fascinating underground museum .

Saxon Arch
Main Church Area
Marvel at a remarkably preserved Saxon arch, a testament to the church's ancient origins dating back to 675 AD .

William Penn's Baptismal Font
Main Church Area
See the font where William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania, was baptized in 1644, connecting you to American history .

Great Fire & WWII Survivor
Various locations within the church
Witness remnants of the Great Fire of London and WWII damage, including solidified lead from the melted roof .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Don't Just Rush to the Tower
Free Entry, Rich History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush! Explore the crypt and church thoroughly; it's more than just a quick stop.
💰 Free entry, donate!
Entry is free, but donations are vital for preservation. Give what you can!
🚶♀️ Combine with Tower visit
Perfectly located next to the Tower of London for a combined historical experience.
📜 Read the info boards
Informative displays enhance understanding of the church's rich history.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush! Explore the crypt and church thoroughly; it's more than just a quick stop.
💰 Free entry, donate!
Entry is free, but donations are vital for preservation. Give what you can!
🚶♀️ Combine with Tower visit
Perfectly located next to the Tower of London for a combined historical experience.
📜 Read the info boards
Informative displays enhance understanding of the church's rich history.
👟 Comfortable shoes needed
You'll be walking on uneven surfaces, especially in the crypt.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise All Hallows by the Tower as an incredible, often overlooked find, especially for its deep history and free entry. The Roman crypt museum with its ancient floor tiles and Saxon artifacts is a major highlight, offering a tangible connection to London's past. Its proximity to the Tower of London makes it a perfect, enriching addition to any itinerary.
"We just happened by after leaving the Tower, and what an incredible find! It was lovely, and the Knights Templar Altar downstairs was incredible. Such history, founded in 675!! Just amazing."
David Turlington
"All Hallows by the Tower is a fascinating and historic church, often overlooked by visitors rushing to the Tower of London. As the oldest church in the City of London, dating back to 675 AD, it has a remarkable history, having survived the Great Fire of London and World War II bombings. The beautiful architecture, peaceful atmosphere, and intriguing artifacts make it a must-visit for history lovers.
The crypt museum is a highlight, featuring Roman and Saxon remains, ancient artifacts, and even a section of a Roman pavement. There are also exhibits about William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania, who was baptized here. The connection to historical events and figures, including Samuel Pepys, adds to its significance.
Entry is free, and the staff are welcoming and knowledgeable, happy to share insights about the church’s past. It’s a quiet, reflective place, perfect for those interested in London’s deep-rooted history. Definitely worth a visit! ⛪✨"
Eranda Janaka
"Great stop after tower for a free small church with many historical display. Donations to church can be made. Excellent stops for Americans for the connection William penn and John Adam’s."
kevin costello
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
All Hallows by the Tower is conveniently located on Byward Street, right next to the Tower of London. The nearest Tube stations are Tower Hill (Circle and District lines) and Aldgate (Circle, Metropolitan, and Hammersmith & City lines). Numerous bus routes also serve the area.
Yes, it's very accessible. Tower Hill station is a short walk away, and buses frequently stop nearby, making it easy to reach via London's public transport network.
Absolutely! It's a very short walk from the Tower of London, and also within walking distance of the Tower Bridge and St Katharine Docks, making it ideal for a walking tour of the area.
On-street parking in the City of London is limited and often expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport. The nearest car parks are typically a significant walk away.
Most visitors arrive from the Tower of London, exiting and turning right onto Byward Street. The church entrance is clearly marked and easily visible from the main road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The church is generally open daily, but hours can vary. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit, especially for the crypt museum.
Entry to the church itself is free. However, donations are gratefully accepted to help maintain this historic site. There may be a small fee for special exhibitions or events in the crypt museum.
No, advance booking is not typically required for general entry to the church. You can usually just walk in. For group visits or special tours, it's advisable to contact the church directly.
Yes, the crypt museum is a key attraction and is usually accessible during church opening hours. It houses significant Roman and Saxon artifacts.
As a place of worship, visitors are expected to be respectful. Photography is generally allowed, but it's always good practice to check for any specific signage or ask a member of staff if you're unsure.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a beautiful church with a Saxon arch, memorials to historical figures like William Penn, and evidence of its survival through the Great Fire and WWII. The crypt museum is a highlight with Roman floors and Saxon artifacts.
Absolutely! The crypt museum offers a unique glimpse into Roman London with its original floor tiles and Saxon remains. It's a tangible connection to the city's ancient past.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always polite to be discreet and avoid flash photography, especially during services. Check for any specific signs or ask staff if in doubt.
To fully appreciate the history and exhibits, plan for at least 1-2 hours. This allows time to explore the church, the crypt museum, and read the informative displays.
While not always formally advertised, knowledgeable volunteers or staff are often on hand to share insights. For specific guided tours, it's best to inquire directly with the church.
📸 📸 Photography
The Roman floor tiles in the crypt, the Saxon arch, the stained-glass windows, and the exterior architecture are all fantastic photo subjects. Don't miss the memorials and historical artifacts.
Yes, photography for personal use is generally allowed inside the crypt museum. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash, as it can damage delicate artifacts.
Morning light can be lovely for the exterior and interior shots. For the crypt, the lighting is artificial, so any time during opening hours is suitable.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited in most of central London, especially near historical sites and busy areas like the Tower of London. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for both wider shots of the church and details in the crypt. A fast prime lens can be good for low-light conditions inside.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider framing the visit as a 'time travel adventure.' You can talk about the Romans who built the floors, the Saxons who created the arch, and the brave people who rebuilt the church after the Blitz. The church's manageable size means kids won't get too tired, and the historical artifacts provide concrete examples of the past. It’s a wonderful way to make history come alive in a tangible way.
🏛️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
Beyond the artifacts, the church's own history as a survivor of the Great Fire and WWII bombings is a compelling narrative. The memorials to figures like William Penn and the accounts of Samuel Pepys add further historical depth. This church is not just a building; it's a chronicle of London's resilience and continuous evolution through millennia.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a walk around the Tower of London exterior and Tower Bridge for a full day of sightseeing without spending much. The church's central location makes it easy to incorporate into a walking tour of the area, maximizing your exploration while minimizing costs. Remember that while entry is free, a small donation is always appreciated to support the upkeep of this historic site.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The History of All Hallows by the Tower
The church's resilience is evident in its architecture and artifacts. You can find a Saxon arch, a rare surviving example of early medieval construction, and beneath the church lies the crypt museum. This underground space reveals layers of history, including a remarkably preserved Roman floor from the 2nd century AD, believed to be part of an ordinary Roman home, and Saxon remains. These discoveries offer a tangible connection to Londinium, the Roman name for London.
Beyond its ancient roots, All Hallows has connections to significant historical figures. William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania, was baptized here in 1644, and his memorial is within the church. The church also hosted the wedding of John Quincy Adams, the 6th U.S. President, and his wife Louisa in 1797. These connections highlight the church's ongoing role in the fabric of both London and international history.
Exploring the Crypt Museum: London's Ancient Past Unearthed
Alongside the Roman remnants, the crypt also houses Saxon artifacts, including a significant Saxon stone cross. These discoveries underscore the church's continuous use and importance throughout different historical periods. The museum also features exhibits detailing the church's survival through major historical events, such as the Great Fire of London and the Blitz, providing context for the damage and subsequent rebuilding efforts.
For those interested in American history, the crypt also contains information and memorials related to William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania, who was baptized in the church. The crypt museum is a compact yet incredibly rich space that provides a profound understanding of London's deep and layered history, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in archaeology and ancient civilizations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit