10 Must-See Churches in
London You Can't Miss
It’s quite typical to think of London as a city full of red buses, royal palaces and afternoon tea. But beyond those iconic impressions of London, the city is home to some of the most beautiful churches.
In this article, we’ll share our picks for the top 10 churches in London that you must see when visiting the city. No matter if you are a history buff or love art and architecture, there are many unique London churches to explore.
TOP 10 CHURCHES
IN LONDON
If you enjoy taking in the historical significance and architecture of London’s churches, we have a complete list of our top suggestions.
1. St Paul’s Cathedral
St Paul’s Cathedral is an iconic symbol of London. Sir Christopher Wren designed it after the Great Fire of London in 1666. Construction of the church finished in 1710, and it stands as an important figure of English Baroque architecture. Its iconic dome dominates the London skyline as one of the largest in the world. It reaches 111 metres in height, and a giant cross tops it.
Inside the cathedral, you will find the Whispering Gallery and famous mosaics depicting scenes from the Bible. Many national events have taken place here, including the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana in 1981 and the funeral of Sir Winston Churchill.
The Cathedral opens for sightseeing from Monday to Saturday, starting at 8:30 AM. It’s free to attend the Cathedral for service; however, if you want to explore the building, you need to purchase a sightseeing ticket. An adult ticket costs £25, and a child ticket costs £10. The Cathedral offers special discounts for families and larger groups.
2. Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, serves as the royal coronation church and the final resting place of 17 monarchs. Moreover, many royal weddings have taken place here, including that of Prince William and Kate Middleton.
The church features Gothic architecture, with vaulted ceilings, stone carvings, and beautiful stained glass windows. When visiting, you must see the Poet’s Corner, where Charles Dickens and Jane Austen are buried. Additionally, make sure to see the famous coronation chair, which craftsmen created between 1300 and 1301 and is still used today during coronations.
The church opens Monday to Friday from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM and on Saturdays from 9 AM to 1 PM. However, it closes to visitors on Sundays but remains open for worship. Tickets cost £30 per adult and £13 per child. Seniors enjoy a reduced entry fee of £27.
3. Southwark Cathedral
Located near London Bridge, the city’s oldest Gothic church dates back to the 12th century. Furthermore, this church has a special connection to William Shakespeare and his family, who lived and worked nearby. When you visit, we suggest exploring the Choir stalls and the Harvard Chapel. Notably, this chapel is dedicated to John Harvard, the college founder who was baptized here.
The cathedral offers extended worship hours; however, for general visits, it is open on Sundays from 12:30 PM to 3 PM and from 4 PM to 5:30 PM. From Monday to Friday, you can visit between 9 AM and 5 PM, and on Saturdays from 9:30 AM to 3:45 PM and from 5 PM to 6 PM. Entrance is free, although donations are always welcomed.
4. St Martin-in-the-Fields
At the northeast corner of Trafalgar Square, it has a rich musical history, famous for its music program and classical concerts. Something oddly unique about this church is its Café in the Crypt, where you can enjoy traditional British food beneath the church.
It’s open daily from 9 AM to 4:30 PM and offers guided tours on Wednesdays. To enjoy a live concert, we recommend visiting their website to purchase tickets.
5. Temple Church
The Knights Templar built the Temple Church in the 12th century, making it a rare and important piece of medieval history in London. Moreover, it features a unique round nave that the builders modelled after the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. Additionally, you can find many tombs of knights here. Its popular allure has increased because Dan Brown mentions it in his book “The Da Vinci Code“.
You can visit the Temple Church from Monday to Friday between 10 AM and 4 PM; however, it is closed on Sundays for worship. Admission for sightseeing costs £5 for adults and £3 for concessions, and children enter for free.
6. St Dunstan-in-the-East
The Great Fire and the Blitz destroyed St Dunstan-in-the-East, which was built in the 12th century. Interestingly, instead of rebuilding after WWII, London transformed the ruins of the church into a garden. Now, greenery and flowers entwine these old Gothic ruins. Consequently, it has become an iconic spot to visit and pose for a photo.
7. All Hallows-by-the-Tower
Established in 675 AD, it is the oldest church in London. Furthermore, it is located right beside the Tower of London and houses an underground crypt from the second century. Interestingly, John Quincy Adams, the sixth President of the U.S., was married here. You can visit daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, and entrance is free.
8. St Mary-le-Bow
According to Cockney tradition, you are only a true Londoner if you were born within hearing distance of the Bow Bells of St Mary-le-Bow. Although the Great Fire destroyed this church, Londoners later rebuilt it. Moreover, the Bow Bells are famously mentioned in children’s nursery rhymes, including “Oranges and Lemons.” You can visit daily, and the entrance is free.
9. St Bartholomew the Great
This is one of London’s oldest surviving churches and features a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Famous films have been shot here, including “Four Weddings and a Funeral,” “Shakespeare in Love,” and “Elizabeth: The Golden Age”.
Opening hours vary, Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM and on Sundays from 1 PM to 4 PM. Entrance is £8.00 for adults and £4.00 for children. There is no charge on Sunday if you are going to church service.
St Bride’s Church
Known as the “Journalists’ Church” as it’s near Fleet Street, historically the heart of Britain’s newspaper industry. This church is beautiful and iconic for its distinctive spire that looks like a multi-tiered wedding cake! You may visit Monday to Friday, from 8 AM to 6 PM.
10. St Bride’s Church
Known as the “Journalists’ Church” as it’s near Fleet Street, historically the heart of Britain’s newspaper industry. This church is beautiful and iconic for its distinctive spire that looks like a multi-tiered wedding cake! You may visit Monday to Friday, from 8 AM to 6 PM.
Bonus - St Mark's Church
While not a functioning church anymore, St. Mark’s in Mayfair deserves a spot on this list for its unique transformation. Built in the 1820s, this Grade I-listed church served as a place of worship for nearly two centuries before being deconsecrated and repurposed. Its elegant Neoclassical architecture, complete with soaring ceilings, stained glass windows, and intricate stonework, remains a stunning testament to its ecclesiastical origins.
Today, St. Mark’s is home to Mercato Mayfair, a vibrant food hall celebrating culinary diversity. Spread across two levels, this space combines the historic beauty of the church with a modern twist—offering international street food, a wine cellar, and even a rooftop terrace with fantastic views of Mayfair. The careful restoration has preserved its sacred atmosphere, making it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts, foodies, and history buffs alike.
While the spiritual services may have ceased, the sense of community and celebration continues in a different form. Whether you’re enjoying artisanal gelato under the vaulted ceilings or exploring the small gallery spaces, Mercato Mayfair offers a unique way to experience London’s church heritage with a modern twist.
→ Want to know more? Check out our full guide to Mercato Mayfair for everything you need to plan your visit.
Visit London and see its most spectacular churches
Each one of London’s churches offers a view into the city’s history and journey in faith. From places of worship to sites of culture, architecture and royal history, each location has a unique story.
When you are ready to explore these historical sites, book your accommodations with Urban Retreat Apartments. Conveniently located near many of these iconic London churches, these stylish and luxurious Mayfair residences will provide the perfect base for your London holiday.