St Paul's, London
Facts and practical information
St Paul's Cathedral, a masterpiece of English Baroque architecture, stands as an iconic feature of the London skyline. Designed by the renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren, the church was completed in 1710 after the Great Fire of London destroyed the original structure. It now serves as the seat of the Bishop of London and a central point of worship for the Anglican community.
Visitors to St Paul's are immediately struck by its impressive facade and the magnificent dome that rises 111 meters (365 feet) high, making it one of the largest in the world. The interior of the cathedral is equally awe-inspiring, with its intricate mosaics, stone carvings, and the famous Whispering Gallery, named for its unique acoustics that allow whispers to be heard clearly across the 30-meter diameter space.
Tourists can climb to the Golden Gallery, the smallest of the cathedral's three galleries, to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of London. The cathedral also serves as a resting place for famous British figures, such as Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington.
St Paul's is not only a place of worship but also a venue for state funerals, jubilee celebrations, and other significant national events. It has survived the Blitz of World War II and remains a symbol of resilience and hope for Londoners.
St Paul's – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)
Nearby attractions include: London Transport Museum, Royal Opera House, Tavistock Street, Lyceum Theatre.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is St Paul's open?
- Monday 8:30 am - 5 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am - 5 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am - 5 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am - 5 pm
- Friday 8:30 am - 5 pm
- Saturday closed
- Sunday 9:30 am - 1 pm
Which popular attractions are close to St Paul's?
How to get to St Paul's by public transport?
Bus
- Southampton Street / Covent Garden • Lines: N26 (3 min walk)
- Bedford Street • Lines: N26 (4 min walk)
Metro
- Covent Garden • Lines: Piccadilly (3 min walk)
- Leicester Square • Lines: Northern, Piccadilly (5 min walk)
Train
- Charing Cross (8 min walk)
- London Waterloo (20 min walk)
Ferry
- Embankment • Lines: Green Tour, Rb1, Rb1X, Rb2, Rb6 (9 min walk)
- Festival Pier • Lines: Green Tour (11 min walk)