St Bartholomew the Great, London - Virgin Mary statue in front of brown cathedral
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St Bartholomew the Great London

4.8
·892 reviews·, United Kingdom

London's oldest continuously functioning church, founded in 1123, offering a breathtaking glimpse into medieval history with stunning Norman architect...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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St Bartholomew the Great, London - Virgin Mary statue in front of brown cathedral

St Bartholomew the Great London

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

London's oldest continuously functioning church, founded in 1123, offering a breathtaking glimpse into medieval history with stunning Norman architecture.

4.8
(892 reviews)

"It still feels like the 12th Century priory it was founded as."

Vertical photo
TIP

🤫 Be Mindful of Services

Check the church's schedule before visiting to avoid disrupting services. Some areas may be closed during worship times.

🚶 Explore Smithfield

Wander through Smithfield Market and Cloth Fair to see London's oldest houses, surviving the Great Fire.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Norman Choir

Norman Choir

Main Sanctuary

Marvel at the stunning Norman architecture of the surviving choir, a breathtaking glimpse into medieval England.

Gatehouse

Gatehouse

Entrance

A rare survivor of Tudor London, this gatehouse stands proudly at the church's entrance.

Cloister

Cloister

Adjacent to the church

Experience the peaceful ambiance of the cloister, a serene space offering a contrast to the bustling city.

Planning Your Visit

Step Back in Time

St Bartholomew the Great is London's oldest continuously functioning church, founded in 1123. Prepare for an immersive medieval experience, but be mindful of ongoing services. Check their schedule to avoid disruption during your visit.

Beyond the Altar

While a place of worship, St Bartholomew the Great also hosts events and has a fascinating cloister. Explore the surrounding Smithfield area, known for its historic market and oldest houses in the City of London, like Cloth Fair.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Sunlight streams through windows
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

St Bartholomew the great, in Smithfield London. London’s oldest continuously place of worship. ❤️🙏🏻 . . . #london #londonlife #londonhistory #history #historic #medieval #medievalarchitecture #tudor ...
lundonlens
661 likes • 11.1K views

🤫 Be Mindful of Services

Check the church's schedule before visiting to avoid disrupting services. Some areas may be closed during worship times. Instagram

🚶 Explore Smithfield

Wander through Smithfield Market and Cloth Fair to see London's oldest houses, surviving the Great Fire. Instagram

Just showing off the amazing St Bartholomew the Great in West Smithfield, London. This was probably the highlight of my day and the everyone was very welcoming to visitors. Well worth a visit if you'r...
churchlarking
183 likes • 3K views
• Smithfield, London • So peaceful today, yet the Priory Church of St Bartholomew the Great has witnessed some of the most dramatic, violent moments in English history. From the hanging of William Wa...
englishpilgrim
1.3K likes • 18.9K views

📸 Capture the History

The architecture is stunning! Don't forget your camera to capture the medieval details and Norman arches. Instagram

🕰️ Feel the Past

This church truly feels like stepping back into the 12th century. Soak in the ancient atmosphere. Reddit

Standing proudly at the entrance to one of the oldest churches in the City lies St Bartholomew’s gatehouse, a rare survivor of Tudor London. The church that the gatehouse protects, St Bartholomew-the...
hollytreenity
0 likes • 12.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🤫 Be Mindful of Services

Check the church's schedule before visiting to avoid disrupting services. Some areas may be closed during worship times. Instagram

🚶 Explore Smithfield

Wander through Smithfield Market and Cloth Fair to see London's oldest houses, surviving the Great Fire. Instagram

📸 Capture the History

The architecture is stunning! Don't forget your camera to capture the medieval details and Norman arches. Instagram

🕰️ Feel the Past

This church truly feels like stepping back into the 12th century. Soak in the ancient atmosphere. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(892 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise St Bartholomew the Great for its breathtaking medieval architecture and profound sense of history, often describing it as a step back in time. While some note that it's a working church with potential service disruptions, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many highlighting its peaceful atmosphere and the charm of the surrounding historic area.

"Breathtakingly beautiful medieval Church with a wealth of history spanning over 900 years.

The Norman architecture is exquisite, and considering the Church survived both The Great Fire of London and The Blitz (I love the story about the Reverend Newell Wallbank kicking incendiary bombs off the roof) I think it’s a miracle this remarkable piece of history is still standing.

Although the church is quite large, it also feels very intimate. I found it very peaceful and was able to enjoy the tranquility, even with a fair amount of visitors.

There was also an art exhibition going on within the church, and a lovely lady who was very informative about the pieces.

Highly recommended for history buffs, film fans, and those who want to visit for religious reasons, reflection, or to remember loved ones."

Caroline Findlay

"Absolutely stunning.
Wonderful atmosphere & historical workmanship.
Used for many films and TV series.
What a joy to find a church that has not been over restored & looks and feels its age.
Interesting art works around the church
Damien Hurst 24c sculpture of the flaying of St Bartholomew.
A must to visit if you're in the area"

Julie Smith

"St Bartholomew the Great is one of London’s most atmospheric and beautifully preserved medieval churches. Tucked away in Smithfield, it feels like stepping back in time — quiet, reverent, and full of character. The architecture is stunning, especially the Norman arches and the intricate stonework. It’s a peaceful escape from the city, rich with history and charm."

Marie Kalm

What People Like

Stunning medieval architecture
Deep sense of history
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Occasional service disruptions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St Bartholomew the Great is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest Tube stations are Farringdon (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan lines) and Barbican (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan lines). Several bus routes also stop nearby. Instagram

Parking in the Smithfield area can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport. If driving is necessary, look for local car parks, but be prepared for limited availability. Instagram

Many visitors enjoy approaching via Cloth Fair, admiring the historic houses before reaching the church. This offers a scenic and historically rich introduction to the area. Instagram

While efforts have been made, some areas of this historic church may present accessibility challenges due to its age and structure. It's advisable to contact the church directly for specific accessibility information. Instagram

The church is located in Smithfield, close to Smithfield Market and the historic Cloth Fair. You're also a short walk from the Museum of London and St Paul's Cathedral. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to St Bartholomew the Great is generally free, as it is a working church. However, donations are gratefully accepted to help with its upkeep. Instagram

Opening hours can vary due to services and events. It's best to check the official St Bartholomew the Great website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Instagram

Yes, St Bartholomew the Great holds regular Church of England services. Visitors are welcome to attend, but please be mindful of the sacred nature of the space. Instagram

While general entry is free, there might be fees for specific guided tours, concerts, or events held at the church. Check their website for details on upcoming events. Instagram

Photography is usually permitted for personal use, but please be respectful and avoid flash photography, especially during services. Some areas might have restrictions. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Founded in 1123 as part of an Augustinian priory, it's London's oldest continuously functioning parish church. It has witnessed centuries of London's dramatic history, from medieval times to the present day. Instagram+1

Don't miss the magnificent Norman choir, the impressive gatehouse, and the serene cloister. The sheer scale and ancient atmosphere are captivating. Instagram+1

Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the architecture and history. If you plan to explore the surrounding Smithfield area, allocate more time. Instagram

Guided tours are often available and highly recommended to gain deeper insights into the church's rich history and architecture. Check the church's website for tour schedules and booking information. Instagram

Visitors consistently describe the atmosphere as peaceful, awe-inspiring, and like stepping back in time. It offers a tranquil escape from the city's hustle. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Norman choir, the grand entrance with the gatehouse, and the cloister offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Look for the play of light through the stained glass windows. Instagram+1

Yes, photography for personal use is generally allowed. However, always be respectful, avoid using flash, and be mindful of ongoing services or events. Instagram

Capture the imposing gatehouse and the church's facade from the street. The surrounding Cloth Fair area also provides charming historical backdrops. Instagram+1

Drone photography is generally not permitted within the church grounds or in close proximity to historic buildings in London due to regulations and privacy concerns. Instagram

Weekday mornings offer softer light and fewer people. Afternoons can provide dramatic light as the sun streams through the windows, but may be busier. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St Bartholomew the Great offers a unique opportunity to introduce children to London's deep history in a tangible way. The sheer scale of the Norman architecture can be awe-inspiring for younger visitors, sparking their imagination about medieval times. Encourage them to look for interesting carvings or imagine knights and monks walking the halls. Instagram

While the church itself is a place of quiet reflection, the surrounding Smithfield area, with its historic houses on Cloth Fair, can also be engaging. Consider a visit during a time when services are not in progress to allow for more freedom of movement. Pack snacks and water, as amenities within the church are limited. The nearby Museum of London also offers interactive exhibits that can complement a visit to the church.

🏛️ History Enthusiasts

For history buffs, St Bartholomew the Great is an absolute must-visit. Its status as London's oldest continuously functioning church, founded in 1123, makes it a living monument to centuries of history. Focus on the Norman choir, a prime example of Romanesque architecture, and the Tudor gatehouse, a rare survivor. Instagram+1

Take your time to absorb the atmosphere and imagine the events that have unfolded within these walls. Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights from knowledgeable guides who can bring the church's rich past to life. Exploring the surrounding Smithfield area, including Cloth Fair, will further enhance your understanding of London's historical development. InstagramReddit

📸 Photographers

St Bartholomew the Great is a dream location for photographers seeking architectural beauty and historical ambiance. The Norman arches of the choir, the play of light through the stained-glass windows, and the imposing Tudor gatehouse offer endless photographic possibilities. Instagram+1

Experiment with different angles and lighting conditions. Early mornings often provide softer, more atmospheric light, while afternoons can create dramatic shadows. Don't forget to capture the details of the stonework and the serene beauty of the cloister. The surrounding Cloth Fair also provides charming historical street scenes to complement your shots. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Medieval London

Founded in 1123 by Rahere, a monk and courtier to King Henry I, St Bartholomew the Great is a remarkable survivor from London's medieval past. Originally part of an Augustinian priory, much of the original structure was lost during the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century. However, the magnificent Norman choir remains, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the grandeur of 12th-century ecclesiastical architecture. The church has witnessed centuries of London's tumultuous history, from royal events to public executions in nearby Smithfield. Instagram+1

Walking through its ancient stone arches and vast nave, you can almost feel the echoes of the past. The gatehouse, a rare Tudor survival, stands as a testament to the church's enduring presence. The adjacent cloister provides a peaceful sanctuary, a stark contrast to the historical dramas that unfolded in Smithfield. It's this deep connection to history that makes St Bartholomew the Great a truly special place to visit. Instagram+1

Many visitors are struck by how authentic the experience feels. As one Reddit user noted, 'It still feels like the 12th Century priory it was founded as.' Reddit This sense of preserved history is a key draw for those seeking an immersive historical experience in the heart of London.

Exploring the Smithfield Surroundings

St Bartholomew the Great is nestled within the historic Smithfield district, an area rich with its own stories. Just around the corner, you'll find Cloth Fair, home to some of the oldest surviving houses in the City of London, built in 1614. These timber-framed buildings miraculously survived the Great Fire of London and subsequent threats, offering a charming visual link to the city's past. Instagram

Smithfield Market itself has a long and varied history, once being a site for public executions and later a bustling livestock market. Today, it's a vibrant area with a unique character. Exploring these streets provides context for the church's enduring presence and offers a more complete picture of historical London. Instagram+1

For those interested in hidden gems, the Cloth Fair Hidden Garden behind the church offers a tranquil green space, a delightful surprise in the urban landscape. Instagram This combination of ancient architecture and preserved streetscapes makes the area around St Bartholomew the Great a fascinating exploration for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

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