Find a place to worship over Christmas and Easter, listen to a peaceful choral evensong service or enjoy a fascinating sightseeing tour with our guide to London’s cathedrals and churches.
St Paul’s Cathedral
Marvel at the breathtaking St Paul’s Cathedral and its towering dome, which make up an iconic part of London’s skyline. Visitors have worshipped at this cathedral in London for more than 1,400 years, and the impressive landmark hosts a stunning programme of live music including Choral Evensong sessions, Easter services and Christmas concerts. Take in panoramic views of London from the Golden Gallery, sample the quirky acoustics in The Whispering Gallery and see the tombs of famous heroes such as Admiral Lord Nelson in the crypt.
It's free to worship at the cathedral in London; with four daily services and an additional session on Sundays. Sightseeing visitors must purchase an entrance ticket.
Westminster Abbey
Be wowed by more than a thousand years of history at the world-famous Westminster Abbey. One of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the United Kingdom, the London landmark began its life in 1245 and its history traces back to 10th-century Benedictine monks. It’s also a must-visit for those interested in all things Royal London, as the stunning coronation church is the final resting place of 17 monarchs and has hosted 16 royal weddings, including Queen Elizabeth II as well as Prince William and Kate Middleton. You'll find a programme of Easter and Christmas services, which includes Christmas Day in London.
There is an entrance fee for visitors, however members of the clergy can apply for a Church Pass allowing members of their congregation to visit without charge.
Southwark Cathedral
Discover more than nine centuries of history at the magnificent Southwark Cathedral, located next to London Bridge. Built in the 13th century, the Gothic church stands at the oldest crossing point of the Thames which was once the only entrance to the City of London – meaning that everyone from princes to paupers have walked through the doors of this London church. Join a guided tour for a fascinating insight into the landmark, including tales of its surrounding area and those who sought refuge at the cathedral.
St Dunstan in the East
Enjoy the tranquillity of the City of London’s stunning St Dunstan in the East. Severely damaged in the Blitz, this hidden gem’s beautiful ruins have been transformed into a public garden, providing a calming sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the capital. Plants tumble over arches to frame views of iconic landmarks such as The Shard and the green lawns offer a pleasant place to stop off for lunch.
St Martin-in-the-Fields Church
When visiting Trafalgar Square, make sure to stop off at the Georgian St Martin-in-the-Fields Church. From Mozart to Handel, the church has welcomed world-famous composers and continues to boast a fantastic programme of classical music in London. Head over during the week for a free lunchtime concert, or see the church’s gorgeous architecture illuminated by candlelight as part of a classical evening concert. If you’re visiting London at Christmas, the church also hosts a series of festive carols and seasonal concerts.
Westminster Cathedral
Wander over to the picture-perfect Westminster Cathedral near Victoria Station. As the mother church for Roman Catholics in England and Wales, this cathedral is a vibrant place of worship and offers Holy Mass more than 40 times a week. The London landmark’s striking exterior is designed in a neo-Byzantine style with red and white brick, and the inside of the cathedral is adorned with more than 120 different types of marble.
St Pancras Old Church
Just moments away from the lively hub of King’s Cross, the St Pancras Old Church is a picturesque spot to visit when in London. This church in London traces its history as far back as the Norman Conquest in the 11th century, but an altar stone dating 625 AD suggests that worship may have taken place from the 7th century. You can attend mass on Monday, Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday, or join a host of history talks and intimate live music gigs at the London church.
All Saints Margaret Street
Created by architect William Butterfield, the All Saints Margaret Street church boasts a stunningly ornate High Gothic Revival design. Take a moment to admire the striking exterior made using a mixture of red and black brick; but it is the inside of this London church that makes it worth a visit. Every inch of the interior’s surface is beautifully decorated with a kaleidoscope of colourful tiles, mosaics and marble in a dazzling array of patterns. The church also boasts a rich musical tradition, including High Mass and beautiful Choral Evensong sessions.
St Clement Danes Church
Located on an island in the middle of the bustling Strand, St Clement Danes Church church offers an oasis of calm. Explore the famous London church, whose bells are mentioned in the traditional Oranges and Lemons nursery rhyme, and hear them ring out across the City of London several times a day. Reconsecrated as the Central Church of the Royal Air Force in 1958, the church is also home to books of remembrance and more than 1,000 RAF badges.
Temple Church
One of the oldest churches in London, Temple Church was founded in the 12th century by the Knights Templar - a Christian order of crusading monks from the Middle Ages. The church has a distinctive design and is one of just four medieval round churches still in use in England. You’ll find several services each week, which follow the Book of Common Prayer and feature beautiful singing from the prestigious Temple Church Choir. You might also recognise the church from a scene in the Da Vinci Code, where the main characters attempt to crack a riddle which leads them to Westminster Abbey.
Discover more historic London attractions, listen to the beautiful sounds of classical music in London or attend a church service on Christmas Day in London.
