St Dunstan in the East, London - gray concrete walls
1 / 10

St Dunstan in the East London

4.7
·8k reviews·, United Kingdom

A serene garden oasis amidst the ruins of a historic London church, offering a tranquil escape and stunning photographic opportunities.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful and fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
St Dunstan in the East, London - gray concrete walls

St Dunstan in the East London

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful and fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene garden oasis amidst the ruins of a historic London church, offering a tranquil escape and stunning photographic opportunities.

4.7
(8k reviews)

"It's so peaceful, a little haven amidst the chaos of the city."

Vertical photo
TIP

🤫 Keep it Peaceful

It's a quiet haven; avoid loud conversations to respect the serene atmosphere.

📸 Insta-Perfect Shots

Capture the 'Rivendell' vibes! Best light is often in the late afternoon.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gothic Ruins

Gothic Ruins

The entire church structure

Explore the hauntingly beautiful remnants of a medieval church, a testament to London's resilience.

Wren's Tower & Steeple

Wren's Tower & Steeple

North side of the church

Admire the surviving 17th-century tower and steeple, a masterpiece of Christopher Wren's architecture.

Secret Garden Oasis

Secret Garden Oasis

The church grounds

Wander through a lush garden that has reclaimed the church ruins, offering a peaceful retreat.

Planning Your Visit

Escape the City Buzz

Discover a tranquil oasis amidst London's bustling financial district. St. Dunstan in the East offers a unique blend of history and nature, perfect for a peaceful escape. Arrive early to avoid the crowds and soak in the serene atmosphere.

Photography Haven

This ruined church garden is a photographer's dream, often compared to Rivendell. Capture the gothic architecture intertwined with lush greenery. Be mindful of other visitors, especially during peak hours, to get those perfect shots.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful and fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer lunchtimes
Why
Enjoy sunlit tranquility
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I rate St Dunstans so much it’s so peaceful #london#aesthetic#secretplace
@izruan
1M likes • 3.6M views

🤫 Keep it Peaceful

It's a quiet haven; avoid loud conversations to respect the serene atmosphere. Reddit

📸 Insta-Perfect Shots

Capture the 'Rivendell' vibes! Best light is often in the late afternoon. TikTokInstagram

Found the Influencer’s Rivendell in London 🇬🇧🧝‍♀️ • 📍St Dunstan in the East • #creator #sony #london #instagram #reels #explorepage #lordoftherings #rivendell #filmmaker #content #contentcreator
@vr_visuals
62.6K likes • 525.1K views
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🍃Hidden in the heart of London, St. Dunstan-in-the-East is a ruined church turned garden. Originally built in the 12th century, it was partly destroyed in the Great Fire of 1666, rebuilt by Chr...
mirigram.fj
114 likes • 0 views

🥪 Lunch Spot

Grab a takeaway and enjoy lunch amidst the ruins. A local favorite! Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

The grounds are uneven; wear sturdy shoes for exploring. Reddit

📍St Dunstan in the East, London #england #london #hiddengems #travel #fyp #foryou #englandtiktok #ruins #history #darkacademia
@shadesofbrenn
51.3K likes • 190.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🤫 Keep it Peaceful

It's a quiet haven; avoid loud conversations to respect the serene atmosphere. Reddit

📸 Insta-Perfect Shots

Capture the 'Rivendell' vibes! Best light is often in the late afternoon. TikTokInstagram

🥪 Lunch Spot

Grab a takeaway and enjoy lunch amidst the ruins. A local favorite! Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

The grounds are uneven; wear sturdy shoes for exploring. Reddit

🕰️ Check Opening Times

While generally accessible, verify hours for any specific events. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

St. Dunstan in the East is widely praised as a beautiful, peaceful oasis in the heart of London, offering a unique blend of history and nature. Visitors love its tranquil atmosphere and photogenic ruins, often comparing it to a secret garden or even Rivendell. However, some note its increasing popularity, which can lead to crowds, particularly from 'Instagrammers'.

"In over a decade living in London, for some time even working in the area, walking past the street countless times with so many friends and family members and never knowing what a gem of a small garden was hiding here, it took one friend who did a bit of a preparation before travelling to London to visit me and remembering this from Instagram. Unbelievable.
We spent about an hour here as we had some peanuts and there were about 6 squirrels running around us to get these. Perfect place to switch off and relax. Beautiful place for photography."

Michael Hocke

"St Dunstan in the East is a remarkable place where nature intertwines with history in the heart of London. The ruins of a former church wrapped in greenery create an atmosphere of quiet and reflection that is hard to find elsewhere in the City. Perfect for a moment's respite - whether for a stroll, relaxing in the shade or reflecting amongst the vines and stone arches. This garden is proof that history can harmonise with nature, silence with the urban fabric and ruins become a lively place. If you're after a unique space - not just aesthetically, but emotionally - St Dunstan in the East is a memorable place."

Izabela Plukier

"A peaceful hidden gem in the heart of London. The ruins of a bombed-out church have been beautifully transformed into a tranquil garden with vines, trees, and stone arches. Great spot to relax, take photos, or enjoy a quiet moment. Free entry and worth a visit if you're nearby. Would recommend going early on the morning as it can become too crowded to take good pictures."

Semih

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Beautiful ruins
Unique 'secret garden' feel

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
Popular with 'Instagrammers'

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way is to take the Tube to Monument station. From there, it's a short walk through the City of London. Many visitors combine a trip here with the Tower of London. Reddit

Yes, it's very accessible. Monument station (Circle and District lines) is the closest, and it's also within walking distance of Tower Hill station. Reddit

Driving in the City of London can be challenging due to traffic and limited parking. Public transport is highly recommended. Reddit

From the Tower of London, you can walk along the Thames or through the City streets. It's about a 15-20 minute walk, offering glimpses of other historic sites. Reddit

Monument station is the closest, followed by Tower Hill. Both are well-connected and offer easy access to the church gardens. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to St. Dunstan in the East church garden is free. It's a public garden open to everyone. TikTok

The gardens are generally open daily from dawn until dusk. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific event closures. Reddit

There is no admission fee to enter the St. Dunstan in the East church gardens. TikTok

Yes, the gardens are open on weekends, but they can be busier with visitors and 'Instagrammers'. Weekday mornings are often more peaceful. Reddit

While it's a public garden, some sources mention it being used for small, intimate events like 'weddings'. Inquire with the City of London Corporation for details. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography, creating a magical atmosphere. Avoid midday sun for softer shadows. TikTokInstagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid setting up extensive equipment that obstructs pathways. Reddit

It's perfect for architectural, nature, and atmospheric photography. The ruins and greenery create a unique, almost 'Rivendell'-like aesthetic. TikTok+1

While not explicitly forbidden, large tripods might be cumbersome and disruptive in this popular, often crowded, spot. Consider a monopod or handheld shots. Reddit

The juxtaposition of the gothic church ruins with vibrant plant life, especially during different seasons, creates a stunning visual appeal. TikTokInstagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no cafes or restaurants within the church garden itself. It's primarily a space for quiet contemplation and enjoying nature. Reddit

Numerous cafes and eateries are located in the surrounding City of London. Many visitors grab a takeaway sandwich or lunch to enjoy in the garden. Reddit+1

Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is a popular activity. It's a great spot for a picnic lunch. Reddit+1

Absolutely. The area around St. Dunstan in the East is filled with coffee shops, perfect for grabbing a drink to enjoy in the garden. Reddit

You'll find a wide range of options, from quick grab-and-go sandwiches and salads to more formal dining experiences in the City of London. Reddit

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

You can explore the historic ruins, wander through the beautiful garden, take photos, and enjoy a peaceful moment away from the city bustle. TikTokReddit

Yes, it's ideal for a short visit, especially if you're exploring the City of London. A 30-60 minute visit is usually sufficient to appreciate its charm. Reddit

It's known for being incredibly peaceful and tranquil, a 'haven amidst the chaos of the city'. It feels like a secret garden. TikTokReddit

The main paths are generally accessible, but some areas might have uneven surfaces due to the nature of the ruins. It's best to proceed with caution. Reddit

Originally built in 1100, it was severely damaged in the Great Fire of London in 1666 and again during the Blitz in WWII. The surviving tower and steeple are by Christopher Wren. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St. Dunstan in the East can be a charming stop for families, offering a unique blend of history and nature. The ruins provide a sense of adventure and mystery for children, sparking their imagination. It's a great place for a picnic lunch, allowing kids to run around a bit in a contained, beautiful setting. Reddit

While the uneven ground requires supervision, the garden offers a safe and engaging environment for a short exploration. It's a wonderful opportunity to introduce children to historical sites in a less formal, more engaging way than a traditional museum. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone and perhaps a small sketchbook for budding artists. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

This location is a dream for photographers, often dubbed London's 'Rivendell'. The gothic ruins intertwined with lush greenery offer endless creative possibilities. The best light for capturing the atmospheric beauty is typically during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon. TikTokInstagram

Be prepared for other visitors, especially during peak times, as it's a popular spot for social media content. Consider visiting on a weekday morning to have more space for your shots. The unique textures and play of light make it ideal for architectural, nature, and moody photography. TikTokReddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers

For solo travelers looking for a moment of calm, St. Dunstan in the East is an ideal destination. It's frequently cited as a peaceful oasis and a perfect spot to enjoy a quiet lunch or simply sit and reflect. The tranquil atmosphere provides a welcome escape from the city's hustle and bustle. TikTokReddit

Arriving during weekday mornings or late afternoons can help you experience the garden at its most serene. It's a place where you can recharge, read a book, or simply soak in the unique ambiance of a garden growing within ancient ruins. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

St. Dunstan in the East boasts a rich and resilient history, dating back to its origins around 1100 AD. It has weathered significant events, including the Great Fire of London in 1666, which destroyed much of the original structure. Following this devastation, the church was partially rebuilt, with the iconic tower and steeple being the work of renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren. However, its trials were not over; the church suffered further damage during the Blitz in World War II. Instead of rebuilding, the decision was made to transform the ruins into a public garden, preserving its historical essence while creating a unique urban sanctuary. Instagram

Today, the garden stands as a poignant reminder of London's past, offering a stark contrast to the modern skyscrapers surrounding it. Visitors can trace the outlines of the former church, imagining its past grandeur while appreciating the beauty of nature reclaiming the space. The blend of ancient stone, Wren's architectural genius, and lush greenery creates an atmosphere that is both historically significant and visually captivating. TikTok

The 'Rivendell' of London

Many visitors and content creators have drawn comparisons between St. Dunstan in the East and the ethereal elven realm of Rivendell from J.R.R. Tolkien's 'The Lord of the Rings'. This comparison stems from the garden's enchanting atmosphere, where the skeletal remains of the church are draped in ivy and surrounded by vibrant plant life, creating a sense of a hidden, magical sanctuary. The interplay of light and shadow through the ruined arches, combined with the peaceful ambiance, evokes a similar feeling of otherworldly beauty. TikTok

This aesthetic has made St. Dunstan in the East a popular spot for photographers and social media content creators seeking unique and visually striking locations. The 'secret garden' feel, combined with its historical depth, offers a compelling backdrop for a variety of creative projects, from personal photoshoots to artistic sketches. It's a place where history, nature, and imagination converge, offering a truly memorable experience for those who discover it. TikTok+1

A Peaceful Urban Retreat

In the heart of London's bustling financial district, St. Dunstan in the East offers a much-needed respite. Numerous Reddit users highlight its value as a peaceful lunch spot, a place to escape the daily grind, and a quiet haven amidst the urban chaos. The garden provides a serene environment where one can relax, read a book, or simply enjoy the tranquility. Reddit+1

The garden's design, with its winding paths and secluded nooks, encourages a sense of discovery and calm. Even with its growing popularity among 'Instagrammers', many visitors find that arriving early or visiting during off-peak hours allows them to experience its true peacefulness. It serves as a testament to how green spaces can be integrated into dense urban environments to enhance well-being and provide a connection to nature. TikTokReddit

You may also like

1 of 2