St Paul's Cathedral, London - ship on dry land
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St Paul's Cathedral

4.7
·52k reviews·, United Kingdom

An iconic 17th-century cathedral with a magnificent dome, offering breathtaking city views and a rich history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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St Paul's Cathedral, London - ship on dry land

St Paul's Cathedral

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An iconic 17th-century cathedral with a magnificent dome, offering breathtaking city views and a rich history.

4.7
(52k reviews)

"The climb to the top is challenging but offers the most spectacular panoramic views of London!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Climb to the Top!

The 528 steps are worth it for incredible London views . Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

🎶 Attend Evensong

Experience beautiful music and see the cathedral for free during services . Check times beforehand. :musical_score:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Dome's Panoramic Views

The Dome's Panoramic Views

Top of the Dome

Ascend 528 steps for unparalleled 360-degree views of the London skyline. A truly unforgettable experience!

Whispering Gallery

Whispering Gallery

Inside the Dome

Experience the unique acoustics where a whisper on one side can be heard clearly on the other. A marvel of architecture!

The Crypt

The Crypt

Below the Cathedral

Explore the final resting place of national heroes and discover fascinating historical artifacts. A somber yet captivating space.

The Cathedral Floor

The Cathedral Floor

Main Nave

Admire the stunning architecture, intricate mosaics, and grand scale of this iconic 17th-century masterpiece.

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Save

Consider attending Evensong for a free glimpse inside St. Paul's, though you won't see the crypts or climb to the dome.Reddit For full access, book tickets online in advance to potentially save time and secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Conquer the Climb

The ascent to the top offers breathtaking panoramic views of London.TikTok Be prepared for 528 narrow steps; it's a rewarding but challenging climb.Reddit Wear comfortable shoes and allow ample time for the ascent and descent.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Evensong Services
Why
Free entry, serene atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

PANORAMIC VIEWS OF LONDON👇🏽 1. Oxo Tower - the best seat in the house for Thameside views and St Paul’s Cathedral 2. Climb up Tower Bridge and walk on the glass floor over the Thames with views of the...
@nikitabathia
49.7K likes • 625.3K views

🎯 Climb to the Top!

The 528 steps are worth it for incredible London views.TikTokReddit Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

🎶 Attend Evensong

Experience beautiful music and see the cathedral for free during services.Reddit Check times beforehand. :musical_score:

As well as being the backdrop to many much-loved films, St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most famous cathedrals where you can discover a spectacular array of art, panoramic views of the London s...
@visitlondon
32.2K likes • 516.8K views
Every angle of St Paul’s tells a different story… but the last one is my favourite! ⛪️🤎 Which one do you love the most? ======================= 📍: St Paul’s Cathedral 🚇: Closest station: St Paul’...
claudine_in_london_
0 likes • 771 views

📸 Capture Every Angle

St. Paul's is stunning from every perspective, especially the last one! Instagram :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby Churches

St. Bart's the Great and St. Magnus the Martyr are beautiful and free to visit nearby.Reddit :church:

Where's the best view of St Paul's Cathedral? #stpaulscathedral #london #tourguide #londonrecs
wondersoflondon_tour
4.5K likes • 158.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Climb to the Top!

The 528 steps are worth it for incredible London views.TikTokReddit Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

🎶 Attend Evensong

Experience beautiful music and see the cathedral for free during services.Reddit Check times beforehand. :musical_score:

📸 Capture Every Angle

St. Paul's is stunning from every perspective, especially the last one! Instagram :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby Churches

St. Bart's the Great and St. Magnus the Martyr are beautiful and free to visit nearby.Reddit :church:

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your entry and potentially save time by booking your tickets in advance.Reddit :admission_tickets:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(52k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise St. Paul's Cathedral for its breathtaking architecture, the rewarding climb to the dome with its spectacular views, and its significant historical and spiritual importance. Many find attending Evensong a beautiful and free way to experience the cathedral's atmosphere. However, some find the 528 steps to the top challenging, and the cost of entry can be a consideration for budget travelers.

"Iconic & Landmark Cathedral
This is the most famous Cathedral in London. It is also one of the largest in the world. The architecture is amazing & this building is really beautiful.
I know it takes a bit of going out of central London to come her but it is (in my opinion) really worth it.
My recommendation would be to come early in order to avoid the tourist rush. Enjoy!"

Paul Vivas

"St. Paul's Cathedral is a fantastic must-see for all tourists coming to London. This cathedral was rebuilt after the Great Fire of London in 1666, and the architect of this wonderful church was Sir Christopher Wren, who rebuilt it using the Baroque style.
Wonderful and a must-see, especially helpful is the audios available in many languages that help tourists immerse themselves in the Anglican church world of which this Cathedral is the most striking example here in London."

Stefano Lenci

"Beautiful City icon that rises majestically above the Thames River 🥰 The self-guided tour is comprehensive. There is more than enough information for a whole day. We spent 1.5hrs in the Knave, Domes, Galleries and Crypt. Go early 0830-1000 as the crowds build up later. We were staying nearby and so we passed by the lovely building every day. Feel more connected to St Paul’s as a result of the visit. Highly recommended."

Lynn Sadler

What People Like

Stunning architecture
Panoramic dome views
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Challenging dome climb
Entry ticket cost

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St. Paul's Cathedral is easily accessible via public transport. The closest Tube station is St. Paul's on the Central Line. Numerous bus routes also stop nearby, making it a convenient destination for exploring London.Instagram Many hotels in the area are well-connected by the Tube network, making it a good base for sightseeing.Reddit

Yes, the area around St. Paul's is considered a good central location. It's within walking distance of many attractions and offers excellent transport links via the Tube and bus networks.Reddit You can walk to Leicester Square in about 1.5 miles.Reddit

The closest Tube station is St. Paul's on the Central Line. Other nearby stations include Blackfriars and Farringdon, offering further connectivity across the city.Reddit

Yes, depending on your starting point, walking to St. Paul's is often feasible. For instance, it's about a 1.5-mile walk from Leicester Square.Reddit Many visitors enjoy walking between key London landmarks.

Yes, there are hotels near St. Paul's, such as Leonardo St. Paul's, though it can be expensive.Reddit The area caters to both city workers and tourists, with good transport links.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary, but booking online in advance is recommended for potential savings and to guarantee entry.Reddit Check the official website for the most current pricing and any special offers.

You can experience St. Paul's Cathedral for free by attending Evensong services.Reddit While this allows you to see the main cathedral, it does not include access to the crypt or the dome climb.

A standard ticket typically includes access to the Cathedral floor, the Whispering Gallery, the Stone Gallery, and the Golden Gallery at the top of the dome.Reddit Access to the crypt is also usually included.Reddit

It is highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid queues and ensure entry.Reddit This is a common tip from visitors.

Opening hours can vary, particularly on Sundays and during special events or services. It's best to check the official St. Paul's Cathedral website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Absolutely! The climb involves 528 steps but rewards you with spectacular panoramic views of London.TikTokReddit It's a highlight for many visitors, offering a unique perspective of the city.

The Whispering Gallery is a famous feature inside the dome where a whisper on one side can be heard clearly on the opposite side due to its unique acoustics. It's a fascinating architectural marvel to experience.

Photography is generally permitted inside St. Paul's Cathedral for personal use, but flash photography is usually not allowed to protect the artwork and avoid disturbing visitors. Always check for any specific signage.

Many visitors recommend a combination of exploring the main floor, visiting the crypt, and climbing to the dome for the views.Reddit Attending Evensong offers a different, more spiritual experience.Reddit

Yes, guided tours are often available and can provide deeper insights into the history and architecture of the cathedral. Check the official website for tour schedules and booking information.

📸 📸 Photography

For iconic exterior shots, consider Millennium Bridge, One New Change shopping center's rooftop terrace, or even from the Oxo Tower for Thameside views.TikTokInstagram Inside, every angle offers a different story.Instagram

Yes, you can take photos from the top of St. Paul's Cathedral, offering incredible panoramic views of London. Be mindful of other visitors and any specific restrictions.

Photography for personal use is generally allowed inside, but flash is prohibited. Some areas might have specific restrictions, so always look for signage.Instagram

Late afternoon often provides beautiful 'golden hour' light for exterior shots. Early mornings can also be good for fewer crowds and softer light. The views from the top are stunning at any time of day.

The intricate details of the dome, the grand nave, and the views from the galleries are all fantastic photo opportunities. Don't forget to capture the exterior from various vantage points around the city.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St. Paul's Cathedral can be an engaging visit for families, though the climb to the dome requires stamina. The Whispering Gallery is a fun, interactive element that kids often enjoy trying out. Exploring the crypt can also spark curiosity about history and famous figures. Consider focusing on the main floor and crypt if the full dome climb seems too daunting. The sheer scale of the cathedral is impressive for all ages. Remember to bring snacks and water, and plan for breaks.

⛪️ Spiritual Seekers & Music Lovers

For those drawn to the spiritual and musical aspects of St. Paul's, attending Evensong is a must.Reddit This daily service features the renowned St. Paul's choir, offering a sublime experience of choral music in a magnificent setting. It's a chance to connect with the cathedral's sacred purpose and enjoy its acoustics without an admission fee.Reddit Even outside of services, the cathedral's atmosphere is one of reverence and peace, inviting quiet contemplation.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

St. Paul's Cathedral is a photographer's dream. From iconic exterior shots on Millennium Bridge or from One New Change,Instagram to the intricate details of the interior and the panoramic views from the dome,TikTok there are endless compositions to capture. The Golden Gallery offers unparalleled cityscapes, while the main nave and crypt provide opportunities for dramatic architectural and historical photography. Be prepared for varying light conditions and remember to respect the no-flash policy inside.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Dome and Its Views

The magnificent dome of St. Paul's Cathedral is its most recognizable feature, standing tall against the London skyline. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, it's an architectural marvel that has witnessed centuries of history. For those who are able, the climb to the top is an absolute must-do. It involves ascending 528 steps, a journey that can be challenging but incredibly rewarding.Reddit Along the way, you'll pass the Whispering Gallery, a unique acoustic space where a whisper on one side can be heard on the other, and the Stone Gallery, offering closer views of the dome's structure.

Reaching the Golden Gallery at the very top provides breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of London.TikTok From this vantage point, you can spot famous landmarks like the Shard, the Tower of London, and the Houses of Parliament. It's an unparalleled perspective of the sprawling city and a truly memorable experience that many visitors rave about.Reddit Remember to wear comfortable shoes and allow ample time for the ascent and descent, as the staircases can be narrow.Reddit

A Spiritual and Historical Sanctuary

St. Paul's Cathedral is not just an architectural masterpiece; it's a place of profound spiritual significance and a silent witness to pivotal moments in British history. It has hosted royal weddings, state funerals, and national thanksgiving services, including the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer, and the funeral of Winston Churchill. The crypt below the cathedral offers a solemn yet fascinating glimpse into this history, serving as the final resting place for notable figures such as Admiral Lord Nelson, the Duke of Wellington, and Sir Christopher Wren himself.

For those seeking a more serene and cost-effective experience, attending Evensong is highly recommended.Reddit This daily choral service offers a chance to hear the cathedral's renowned choir and experience the sacred atmosphere without an admission fee.Reddit While you won't have access to the crypt or the dome climb during Evensong, it provides a beautiful and moving way to appreciate the cathedral's spiritual heart. Nearby, you can also find other historic churches like St. Bart's the Great and St. Magnus the Martyr, which are free to visit and offer their own unique charm.Reddit

Photography Opportunities

St. Paul's Cathedral presents a wealth of photographic opportunities, both inside and out. For stunning exterior shots, consider viewpoints from Millennium Bridge, which offers a direct, iconic perspective of the cathedral framed by the bridge's architecture. The rooftop terrace of the One New Change shopping center also provides excellent elevated views, allowing you to capture the dome in its full glory.Instagram For a different angle, the Oxo Tower offers Thameside vistas that include St. Paul's.TikTok

Inside, the cathedral's grandeur is equally photogenic. The main nave with its soaring columns and intricate ceiling details is a sight to behold. The Whispering Gallery offers unique shots showcasing the dome's curvature and acoustic properties. Even the crypt provides opportunities for atmospheric photography, capturing the historical significance of the tombs and memorials. Remember that flash photography is generally not permitted inside to preserve the artwork and avoid disturbing visitors, so be prepared to shoot in lower light conditions.Instagram

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