London is a symbol of British civilization. This iconic city boasts of beautiful palaces, museums, forts and parks – all spectacular in their own right. The buzzing River Thames attracts tourists as much as the shopping streets and popular restaurants. In this context, we cannot forget the magnificent churches of London, which are spread far and wide throughout the city. With stunning structures and artistic decorations, they leave every traveler reveling in their awe-inspiring majesty. Take a look at London’s famous churches and make sure they are part of your itinerary in the city.
10 must-see churches in London in 2023
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 the London skyline
Situated perfectly on Ludgate Hill – the highest point in the city – St Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most popular and iconic churches in London, England. Established in AD 604, it is the seat of the Bishop of London and the mother church of the Diocese of London. This 111 meter high white marble building attracts every visitor with its huge dome, carved walls, beautiful frescoes, wooden fittings and nave. Additionally, the Golden Gallery, located at the top, offers amazing views of the city of London. St Paul’s Cathedral, London, is also known for hosting live music and events at Easter and Christmas.
Place: St Paul’s Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD, UK
opening time: 8 am to 4:30 pm
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2. Southwark Cathedral- Stained glass windows and frescoes
Southwark Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral and Collegiate Church of St Saviour, and St Mary Overy, is located on the south bank of the River Thames and is considered a landmark of the city. Established in 1897, this cathedral is the seat of the Anglican Diocese of Southwark and has been in service for almost 1000 years. Opposite London Bridge, Southwark Cathedral displays beautiful Gothic architecture. This monument in the south aisle was erected in 1912 to commemorate William Shakespeare. One of London’s most famous churches, it has its own choir which performs on the fourth Sunday of every month.
Place: London Bridge, London SE1 9DA, UK
opening time: 8 am to 6 pm
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3. St. Mary Abbot’s Church- An Architectural Masterpiece
Hosting daily celebrations of the Holy Eucharist as well as morning, evening and night prayers every day, 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 churches of London, whose structure shows a beautiful fusion of Neo-Gothic and Early-English patterns. If one wants to see great architectural and sculptural work then one must visit it.
Place: Kensington Church St, Kensington, London W8 4LA, UK
opening time: day and night
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4. Temple Church- A venue for social events and community gatherings
This church belongs to the Inner and Middle Temple, two ancient societies of lawyers of England. Located in the center of the city between the River Thames and Flea Street, the Temple Church dates back to the 12th century. Built by the Knights Templar, this church displays a distinctive round structure. The original church was heavily damaged by German bombing during World War II and has since been renovated into the present version. Interestingly, the venue also hosts social events and parties and the church provides rock and pop music to guests as well as complimentary pizza and lemonade.
Place: Temple, London EC4Y 7BB
opening time: 10 am to 4 pm
5. St. Leonard’s Church- Icon of Heritage
St. Leonard’s Church is another name in the list of must-see churches in London. Built in 1720 by renowned architect George Dance the Elder, this church is a must visit during your London city tour. St. Leonard’s Church is famous for its huge bell, tall dome, engraved columns and hosting concerts and church services of all types.
Place: Streatham High Road, London SW16 1HS
opening time: Noon to 2 a.m., Monday through Friday.
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6. Holy Trinity- Famous for architectural masterpieces
Stained glass windows, colorful murals and stunning interior artwork welcome everyone to Holy Trinity. With exemplary architecture designed by John Dando Sedding, the church proudly houses monumental glass masterworks by Edward Burne-Jones and William Morris. One of the top places to visit in England, tourists visiting here find architectural delight as well as spiritual solace. It is one of the most popular churches in London, not only a marvel of architecture but also for its famous choir specializing in Anglican church music.
Place: Sloane Street
opening time: 8:30 am to 6 pm
7. Westminster Cathedral – A sight to behold
There are many beautiful churches in London and Westminster Cathedral is definitely one of them. Located near Victoria station, it is the mother church of Roman Catholics in England and Wales. The exterior is made of red and white bricks, showcasing neo-Byzantine style architecture, while the interior, made of 120 different types of marble, is equally fascinating. It is one of the most popular Catholic churches in London and Mass is offered more than 40 times a week.
Place: 42 Francis St, Westminster, London SW1P 1QW
opening time: 7 am to 5:30 pm
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8. St Pancras Old Church – An ancient place of worship
Just opposite King’s Cross, St Pancras Old Church is one of the oldest churches in London, whose origins can be traced back to the days of the Norman Conquest. The place is quiet, soothing and offers regular mass services on Monday, Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday. Apart from this, this church also organizes live concerts and interactive sessions for the visitors. Since it is located next to an important landmark, it would be a shame to miss it.
Place: Pancras Road, Camden Town, London, NW1 1UL
opening time: 9:30 am to 6 pm
9. Wesley Chapel and Museum – A beautiful Methodist church
Formerly known as City Road Chapel, it is a Methodist church, built by John Wesley, who led the Methodist movement. Presently, it is a place of worship as well as a museum of Methodism and is quite popular among the locals and tourists. If we are discussing churches in London, it would be unfair not to include Wesley Chapel and Museum in the list.
Place: 499 City Road, London EC1Y 1AU
opening time: 10 am to 4 pm
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10. St Martin in the Fields – A beauty in the heart of London
Located on the busy Trafalgar Square in the City of Westminster, St. Martin in the Fields offers a pure and tranquil environment to its visitors. With its amazing dome, huge stained glass windows, beautiful frescoes and lively masses, St Martin in the Fields has earned its place on the list of must-see churches in London. As well as the main worship area and gallery, St Martin in the Fields also has a café and a souvenir shop.
Place: Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 4JJ
opening time: 8:30 am to 6 pm
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Churches have always been an important part of British civilisation. Enjoying the peace in these London churches is a must. Thus, if you are also a culture enthusiast, make sure you include these in your customized London trip with TourTravelHotels.
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FAQs about Churches in London
What are the timings of the churches present in London city of Britain?
Churches in London are open from 08:00 am to 07:00 pm. Nevertheless, St Mary Abbots Church in Kensington Church Street is open 24 hours a day to Londoners and tourists.
What types of places of worship are there for Christianity in London?
The places of worship for Christianity in London are the Anglican Church, Roman Catholic Church and Orthodox Synagogue types.
How are churches classified in London?
According to Church of England statistics, London has historic, cultural, heritage and modern churches.
Which is the historic church which receives the most number of tourists every day in the city of London?
St Paul’s Cathedral, located in the heart of the City of London, is the most visited site by tourists in the city of London every day.
In what architectural styles are the churches built in London?
Churches in London are of the Byzantine Revival, English Baroque, Georgian, Gothic, Gothic Revival and Modern Gothic, Neoclassical and Neo-Gothic styles.
What is the best time to go to church in London?
There is no particular season for visiting churches in London. Tourists can see some types of programs, concerts and marriages taking place in those churches.
Are tourists allowed in all churches in London?
Yes, tourists will have to enter these only during the permitted time. Churches in London never look at the religion or ethnicity of the tourists visiting there.
Is photography prohibited in churches in London?
No, you can take photos of the outside and inside of churches in London. It is advisable to switch off flashlights when there is a crowd.
