London is the epitome of British civilization. This iconic city boasts of beautiful palaces, museums, forts and parks – all splendid in their own right. The buzzing river Thames allures tourists as much as the shopping streets and popular restaurants. In this context, we cannot miss the spectacular churches in London, which are spread far and wide across the city. With astounding structure and artistic décor, they leave every traveler basking in their awe-inspiring glory. Have a look at the famous London churches and make sure they are part of your itinerary of the city.
10 Must-See Churches In London In 2024
The list of popular churches is quite extensive as each of them reflects the history and heritage of the bygone colonial era. Check them out.
1. St. Paul’s Cathedral- An indelible part of London skyline
Perfectly set on the Ludgate Hill – the highest point of the city – St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most popular and iconic churches in London, England. Founded in AD 604, this is the seat of Bishop of London and the mother church of the Diocese of London. This 111-meter-high white marble edifice attracts every visitor to its towering dome, engraved walls, beautiful frescos, wooden fittings, and the nave. Also, the golden gallery, located at the top, offers jaw-dropping views of the London city. St. Paul’s Cathedral, London, is also known for hosting live music and events on Easter and Christmas.
Location: St. Paul’s Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD, UK
Opening hours: 8 AM to 4: 30 PM
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2. Southwark Cathedral- Stained-glass windows and frescos
Southwark Cathedral, also known as The Cathedral and Collegiate Church of St Saviour and St Mary Overie, is located on the southern bank of River Thames and is considered to be an important landmark of the city. Founded in 1897, this cathedral is the seat of Anglican Diocese of Southwark and has been in service for about 1000 years. Overlooking the London Bridge, Southwark Cathedral showcases beautiful Gothic architecture. The monument in the south aisle was raised in 1912 in the fond memory of William Shakespeare. One of the most famous churches in London, it has its own choir which performs on the 4th Sunday of every month.
Location: London Bridge, London SE1 9DA, UK
Opening hours: 8 AM to 6 PM
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3. St. Mary Abbots Church- An architectural masterpiece
Hosting morning, evening and night prayers every day, along with daily celebrations of Holy Eucharist, St. Mary Abbots Church is another sight of wonder in London. Designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott in 1872, St. Mary Abbots Church is one of the famous London churches, whose structure showcases a beautiful fusion of neo-Gothic and early-English patterns. It’s a must visit if anyone wishes to witness fine architectural and sculptural work.
Location: Kensington Church St, Kensington, London W8 4LA, UK
Opening hours: Round the clock
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4. Temple Church- A space for social events and community celebrations
This church belongs to the Inner and Middle Temple, two of England’s ancient societies of lawyers. Located in the heart of the city between River Thames and Flee Street, the Temple Church’s origin dates back to 12th century. Built by Knights Templar, this church showcases a typical round structure. The original church was heavily damaged due to German bombing during World War II and the present version has been renovated thereafter. Interestingly, this place also hosts social events and parties and the church offers complementary pizza and lemonade to guests along with rock and pop music.
Location: Temple, London EC4Y 7BB
Opening hours: 10 AM to 4 PM
5. St. Leonard’s Church- A symbol of heritage
St. Leonard’s Church is another name in the league of must-see churches of London. Built by famous architect George Dance the Elder in 1720, this church is a must visit during your London city tour. St. Leonard’s Church is famous for the huge bell, long dome, engraved pillars and for hosting music concerts and all kinds of church services.
Location: Streatham High Road, London SW16 1HS
Opening hours: Noon to 2 PM, Monday to Friday.
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6. Holy Trinity- Famous for architectural masterpieces
The stained glass window, colorful frescos and stunning interior artwork welcome all at Holy Trinity. Along with exemplary architecture designed by John Dando Sedding, the church proudly houses the monumental glass masterwork by Edward Burne-Jones and William Morris. One of the top places to visit in England, it visitors with architectural delight paired with spiritual solace. It is one of the most popular London churches not only for being an architectural marvel but also for its famous choir specializing in Anglican Church music.
Location: Sloane Street
Opening hours: 8:30 AM to 6 PM
7. Westminster Cathedral- A sight of wonder
There are many beautiful churches in London and Westminster Cathedral is certainly one of them. Located in proximity to Victoria Station, this is the mother church of Roman Catholics in England and Wales. The exterior is made of red and white brick, showcasing the neo-Byzantine style architecture while the interior, made with 120 different types of marbles, is equally fascinating. It is one of the most popular Catholic churches in London and offers Holy Mass more than 40 times a week.
Location: 42 Francis St, Westminster, London SW1P 1QW
Opening hours: 7 AM to 5:30 PM
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8. St Pancras Old Church- An ancient place of worship
Just across the King’s Cross, St Pancras Old Church is one of the oldest churches in London, whose origin can be traced as early as the days of Norman conquest. The place is calm, soothing and offers regular mass services on Monday, Tuesday, Saturdays and Sundays. Moreover, this church also hosts live music gigs and interactive sessions for visitors. As it situated next to an important landmark, it would be a shame to miss giving it a visit.
Location: Pancras Road, Camden Town, London, NW1 1UL
Opening hours: 9:30 AM to 6 PM
9. Wesley’s Chapel & Museum- A beautiful Methodist church
Formerly known as City Road Chapel, this is a Methodist church constructed by John Wesley, who pioneered Methodist movement. Presently, this is a place of worship as well as a museum of Methodism and is quite popular among locals and tourists. If we are discussing churches in London, then it will be unfair not to include Wesley’s Chapel & Museum in the list.
Location: 49 9 City Road, London EC1Y 1AU
Opening hours: 10 AM to 4 PM
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10. St. Martin in the Fields- A beauty in the heart of London
Perched on the buzzing Trafalgar Square in the City of Westminster, St. Martin in the Fields offers a pure and serene ambiance to its visitors. With its marvelous dome, huge glass windows, beautiful frescos and vibrant Mass prayers, St. Martin in the Fields has made its way onto the list of must-see churches in London. Along with the main worship area and gallery, St. Martin in the Fields also has a café and a souvenir shop.
Location: Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 4JJ
Opening hours: 8:30 AM to 6 PM
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Churches have always been a significant part of British civilization. It is a must to soak in the serenity and at these churches in London. Thus, if you too are a culture enthusiast, make sure you include these in your customized London trip with TravelTriangle.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Churches In London
What are the timings of churches present in London City, UK?
Churches in London are open from 08:00 AM to 07:00 PM. Yet, the St. Mary Abbots Church in Kensington Church Street is open 24-hours for the Londoner and tourists.
What types of worship places are there in London for the Christian faith?
There are Anglican churches, Roman Catholic churches, and Orthodox synagogue types of worship places are there in London for the Christian faith.
How are churches classified in London?
As per the Church of England statistics, there are historic, cultural, heritage and modern churches in London.
Which is the historic church that is most visited by tourists daily in London City?
The St Paul’s Cathedral in the heart of London City is the most visited by tourists daily in London City.
Which are all the architectural styles churches in London are built-in?
The churches in London are of Byzantine Revival, English Baroque, Georgian, Gothic, Gothic Revival, and Modern Gothic, Neoclassical, and Neo-Gothic styles.
Which is the right time to visit churches in London?
There are no special seasons to visit the churches in London. The tourists can find some sort of events, music, and marriages happening in those churches.
Are tourists allowed in all the churches in London?
Yes, the tourists must enter them in the permitted time only. The churches in London never look at the religion or ethnicity of a tourist visiting there.
Is photography prohibited in the churches present in London?
No, you can take photos from outside and inside the churches present in London. It is advisable to put off the flashlights when the masses are going on.
A book lover and fun-loving, overtly emotional mom with a wanderlust soul, Sukanya has completed her Master Degree in Geography and currently perusing her passion for writing as a profession. Nothing detoxes her more than trying new recipes and travelling to offbeat places is ultimate Therapy for her.