The 8 best churches in London to explore

The best churches in London reflect both the city's historic grandeur and its youthful, creative energy. From the hallowed halls of Westminster Abbey to the buzzing Crypt Cafe under St Martin-in-the-Fields, London's famous churches delight, fascinate, and surprise.

Wander the atmospheric ruins of St. Dunstan’s or check out St. Bart’s architectural oddness. Whether it’s your first time in the city or you’re a returning visitor hoping to discover more of London’s hidden gems, this guide to the best churches and cathedrals in London has it all.

1. St. Paul’s Cathedral, City of London

London’s most famous church, with stellar views

Completed in 1710, the majestic St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the capital's finest buildings. From the wedding of Prince Charles and Diana to Winston Churchill’s funeral, this must-see church in London is a Baroque masterpiece that’s hosted some truly iconic occasions.

Inside, admire the magnificent painted dome covered with gold leaf detailing and check out the American Memorial Chapel’s impressive stained glass panels dedicated to American soldiers who perished in World War II. Finally, climb the 528 steps to the Golden Gallery and take in one of the best views of London's skyline from the outdoor balcony surrounding the cathedral dome.

Insider tip

Attend a Choral Evensong to hear the 7,189-pipe organ play and fully appreciate the incredible acoustics of the Whispering Gallery.

Address

St. Paul's Churchyard, City of London, EC4M 8AD

Opening hours

Monday–Saturday, 8:30 AM-4:30 PM (opens 10:00 AM on Wednesday)

2. Westminster Abbey, City of Westminster

The heart of the British monarchy and their final resting place

The coronation site of British monarchs since 1066, the current Westminster Abbey (completed in 1269) is an iconic London landmark with a grand gothic facade and a captivating stained glass rose window.

The impressive nave features towering columns and vaulted stone arches, while the quieter burial section includes the tombs of 17 former monarchs, each topped with life-like statues of the deceased. Don’t miss Poets Corner, where you can find the graves/memorials of renowned British authors and poets like Geoffrey Chaucer, Charles Dickens, and Lord Tennyson.

Know before you go

Tickets often sell out more than a month in advance during the summer, so it's best to book early online.

Address

Dean's Yard, SW1Pg 3PA

Opening hours

Monday–Friday, 9:30 AM-3:30 PM

Saturday, 9:00 AM-3:00 PM

3. St. Martin-in-the-Fields, City of Westminster

A central London church with a trendy cafe in the crypt

Across from the National Gallery and the buzzing Trafalgar Square, the neoclassical columns and clock tower of St. Martin-in-the-Fields have stood proudly since 1726. While the church has an elegant grace, it’s the subterranean Crypt Cafe that’s really special. Fully accessible, this incredible space is one of the most unique cafes in London and you’ll really feel the weight of history as you sip your drink among centuries-old tombs and original brick pillars.

Insider tip

The acoustically excellent of the crypt regularly hosts candlelight concerts, jazz nights, and silent discos. Check the church calendar for more info.

Address

Trafalgar Sq, London WC2N 4JJ.

Opening hours

Daily, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Cafe open daily, typically 10:00 AM-5:00 PM but hours can vary

4. Southwark Cathedral, Southwark

An architectural mashup on the banks of the Thames

While much of the majestic Southwark Cathedral dates back to the 12th century, the spectacular nave is actually a Victorian addition built to sympathetically replace the original nave that fell into disrepair and was eventually demolished in 1839. Inside, the joins between the centuries feel remarkably seamless, the nave’s classically Gothic pointed arches and vaulted ceiling echoing the style of the retrochoir behind the altar, the oldest part of the current church.

Look out for details like the 15th-century carved wooden bosses saved from a roof that collapsed in 1469 or the striking Shakespeare Window, which celebrates the legendary playwright’s connection to the area with stained glass depictions of scenes from his plays.

Insider tip

After exploring this striking London cathedral, step outside and right into the heart of Borough Market, where you can get some of the tastiest street food in the city.

Address

London Brg, SE1 9DA

Opening hours

Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM

Sunday, 8:30 AM-5:00 PM

5. St Pancras Old Church, Camden Town

One of the UK’s oldest Christian sites

Tucked away from the crowds near St Pancras International Train Station, the St Pancras Old Church may not be one of the most famous churches in London, but it’s a fascinating historic gem. There’s some evidence that worshippers have gathered here since the 4th century and even now, the white plaster walls and dark wood beams have an unassuming austere beauty.

After taking in the interior, explore the churchyard and cemetery to find famous graves, such as those of women’s rights advocate Mary Wollstonecraft and the influential architect Sir John Soane.

Know before you go

Free guided tours of the churchyard are available; contact the staff in advance to arrange a time that suits you.

Address

Pancras Rd, NW1 1UL

Opening hours

Daily, 9:30 AM-5:00 PM (closing time may vary due to evening concerts)

6. All Saints Church, Margaret Street, Fitzrovia

An unassuming church with a richly decorated nave

Step inside All Saints Church and you’ll immediately understand why this is one of the most beautiful churches in London. From the black and red marble floors to the ornately painted ceiling and arches, the nave is a flurry of mesmerizing colors and designs. The strong Renaissance influence on the church’s architect William Butterfield is exemplified by the magnificent three-tiered Life of Christ fresco on the East wall.

Insider tip

Late afternoons give the best lighting for photography, the sun streaming through the west-facing windows and showcasing the vibrant interior.

Address

7 Margaret St, W1W 8JG

Opening hours

Daily, 11:00 AM-7:00 PM

7. St. Dunstan in the East, City of London

A bombed-out church turned city park

A serene park within the ruins of a 17th-century Gothic Revival church, St. Dunstan in the East is a captivating blend of history and nature. After the church was severely damaged during World War II, the site was transformed into a delightful oasis where plants climb the stone walls and curl around the glassless windows. Perfect for a quiet escape or atmospheric Insta snaps, this hidden gem embodies London’s resilience and creativity.

Know before you go

For the best photos, avoid the crowds of al fresco diners on weekday lunchtimes.

Address

St Dunstan's Hill, City of London, EC3R 5DD

Opening hours

Daily, 8:00 AM-7:00 PM (or dusk if earlier)

8. St. Bartholomew the Great, City of London

The oldest parish church in London

Founded in 1123, St. Bartholomew the Great, often called St. Bart's, is one of the oldest churches in London, and you feel that history as soon as you see the dark wooden beams of the charming Tudor gatehouse. Inside the church proper, keep an eye out for the unusual blend of Romanesque (chunky columns and rounded arches) and Gothic (slimmer columns and pointed arches) features that make this one of the most unique London churches to visit. And don’t miss the Lady Chapel, a serene space where future US Founding Father Benjamin Franklin worked as a typesetter in the early 1700s.

Insider tip

On the first Thursday of every month, St Bart’s hosts Evensong in the City, a magnificent free choral event.

Address

W Smithfield, City of London, EC1A 9DS

Opening hours

Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM

Sunday, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM between services