10 Best Churches and Cathedrals in London

London is known for its history, culture and for being a city full of iconic monuments. As well as its museums and palaces, the British capital is home to some of the world's most impressive churches and cathedrals, which stand out for their architecture and historical significance.

Each church is a reflection of the city's cultural and religious heritage, which is why touring them is one of the best things to see and do in London In this guide I introduce you to some of London's most iconic churches, from grand Gothic temples to small hidden chapels.

Built between 1676 and 1710, London's St Paul's Cathedral is located on Ludgate Hill and is notable for its monumental 111-metre high dome. Designed by architect Sir Christopher Wren, St Paul's Church symbolises both the faith and resilience of the city after the Great Fire of 1666.

The interior of St Paul's, which was inspired by St Peter's Basilica in Rome, is decorated in a mixture of Renaissance and Baroque styles. Admire the gilded mosaics and frescoes in the dome, and explore the crypt, where some of Britain's most famous heroes are laid to rest. You can also visit the Whispering Gallery, famous for its unique acoustics, although it is not always open to the public.

One of the cathedral's greatest attractions is the chance to climb its dome. As you climb the staircase, which has 528 steps, you can visit several galleries before reaching the highest one, the Golden Gallery, which has a privileged view of the Tower of London, the Tate Modern building and even the most unknown part of the city.

Plus, with your ticket to St Paul's Cathedral you can explore the dome, the crypt and the galleries, and you will have access to an audio guide that will give you complete information about the church, which will surely enrich your visit. If you're interested in getting to know it in depth, you can book a guided tour of London and St Paul's Cathedral to explore it with an expert.

Interesting facts

• Location: St. Paul's Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD.
• Price: Entrance to the church costs around €34 for adults and from €14 for under 17s. The guided tour of London with entrance to the church costs €112 per person. Children under 6 years of age do not pay admission and participate for free.
• Opening hours: Tours run Monday to Saturday from 8.30am to 4pm, except Wednesdays, which open from 10am.

Westminster Abbey is one of London's most important landmarks, having witnessed over a thousand years of British history. This Gothic church has been the site of coronations since 1066 and is also the burial place of famous figures such as Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin.

As you walk around Westminster Abbey you will see Henry VII's Chapel and Poet's Corner, where tribute is paid to the great British writers. You can also visit the famous Coronation Throne, which has been used for royal ceremonies for over 600 years, as well as the cloisters and the Dean's Garden.

The monument is usually open every day of the week, although Westminster Abbey opening times vary, so it's best to check before you go. As one of London's most visited attractions, it is advisable to buy your ticket in advance, but you can also book a guided tour of the Abbey to make sure you don't miss any of the highlights.

Facts and Figures

• Location: Dean's Yard, London SW1P 3PA.
• Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9.30am-3.30pm, Saturday 9am-3.30pm.
• Price: Admission to the Abbey costs around €48 for adults and from €19 for children under 17. Guided tours cost around €85 per person.

The Temple Church, known for its neo-Gothic architectural style, was built by the Knights Templar in 1185 and is distinguished by its distinctive circular plan, inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.

It is located in the Temple quarter of the City of London, the city's financial and historic district. A curious fact is that the church has appeared in several film productions, such as the film The Da Vinci Code. As such, it is a place that is often included in film and TV tours of London.

The church is also known for its rich musical tradition, with organ recitals and choral music performances often taking place here. Thanks to its excellent acoustics, it has been the venue for both religious and secular performances.

To get to the Temple Church comfortably, I recommend booking a seat on the Big Bus tour bus, as almost all of its routes stop at the church. And although church services are free during opening hours, there is an entrance fee for visitors. It is also important to bear in mind that weekends may have more limited opening hours for tourists, as they are often closed for events or religious services.

Useful information

• Location: Temple, London EC4Y 7BB, UK.
• Opening hours: usually open Monday to Friday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
• Price: Approximately £4-£6 per person. Children get in free.

In the heart of Trafalgar Square is St. Martin-in-the-Fields Church which, in addition to its historical value, is known for its cosy crypt and classical music concerts. Built in the 18th century, its neoclassical design is the work of architect James Gibbs. It is renowned for its colonnaded façade and spire tower, which is an iconic postcard of the city.

There you'll have the opportunity to explore its crypt, which houses several temporary exhibitions, and where you'll find a café perfect for relaxing at the end of the day. In addition, the crypt bar offers daily music concerts for all tastes, from jazz recitals to great classics of choral and sacred music, which are a great option to enjoy London at night.

As it is centrally located, it is very easy to access. You can also take the opportunity to visit other nearby points of interest, such as the National Gallery and the British Museum, which are among the best museums in London. And if you're interested in exploring them in depth, you can book a guided tour with a local expert, so you won't miss the highlights of each museum.

Useful facts

• Location: Trafalgar Sq, London WC2N 4JJ.
• Opening times: Open daily at various times. Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays from 09:00 to 17:00. Wednesdays from 9am to 7.30pm and Thursdays from 12.30pm to 5pm.
• Price: Admission to the church is free. Free concerts are held on certain days of the week at midday and in the evening with admission, with prices starting at €12 per person.

St Margaret's Church in Westminster is notable for its elegant Gothic design dating from the 15th century. It forms part of the monumental complex in Parliament Square, alongside Westminster Abbey and the Palace of Westminster, so you can take advantage of the opportunity to see these monuments on the same day. In fact, the church has served as the abbey's parish church since 1614.

St Margaret's can be visited every day and, although admission is free, it is suggested that you make a donation towards its upkeep. The church is often included in day trips to London as it is one of the most visited churches in the city. That is why it is usual that in the summer months, when the tourist activity increases, they extend the visiting hours.

One of the things you can see in this church are the commemorative windows, such as the one commemorating the wedding of Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon. If you would like a full and detailed tour of the church and monument complex, you can book a private royal history tour, which will give you a different approach to Westminster.

Interesting facts

• Location: St Margaret St, London SW1P 3JX.
• Opening hours: Open daily, except Sundays, from 9.30am to approximately 3.30pm.
• Price: Admission is free.

Located a stone's throw from Borough Market and The Shard, Southwark Cathedral is one of London's oldest and most interesting churches, though not usually one of the most visited. Its history dates back to the Middle Ages and it has witnessed countless historic events. It is also known for its connection with the Elizabethan theatre and William Shakespeare, as it is the site of the remains of the famous writer's brother.

Southwark Cathedral has a very active cultural programme. Not only does it offer religious services, but it is also a regular venue for organ concerts, classical music recitals and art exhibitions, among other things.

There is also a café, The Refectory, which offers freshly baked homemade goods and speciality coffee. You can also take the opportunity to stroll around the gardens, especially if you go to London in spring, when the pleasant weather and flowers make it ideal for relaxing amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.

Although entry to the cathedral is free, I recommend you buy the London Pass, as it will give you access to an exclusive souvenir map that will help you learn more about the cathedral. This pass also gives you free entry to a number of London attractions.

Useful facts

• Location: London Bridge, London SE1 9DA.
• Opening hours: The Cathedral is open Monday to Saturday from 9am to approximately 6pm and Sunday from 8.30am to 5pm. The café is open daily between 8am and 5pm.
• Price: admission is free.

Located in the Sloan Square neighbourhood, The Holy Trinity Anglican Church is an important example of the Arts & Crafts movement, which promoted a return to medieval working techniques and valued craftsmanship over industrial production. With a Victorian Gothic architectural style, the cathedral is notable for its large tower, colourful stained glass windows and altar mosaics.

Despite its architectural splendour, it is not as frequented by tourists as other churches in London, making it an ideal destination if you prefer a more leisurely stroll. However, it is very active in terms of religious services, offering daily masses and community prayers.

A good time to visit the church is during the Easter and Christmas holidays in London, when the church hosts special events including choral concerts and evening services with classical music, which are very popular with residents.

Admission to the church is free and does not require prior booking, but if you prefer an exclusive guided tour that allows you to learn more about its history and architecture, you can book a personalised tour of London and choose this church as part of the itinerary. It is also close to Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park, two attractions you may want to visit.

Interesting facts

• Location: Sloane St, London SW1X 9BZ.
• Hours: Monday to Friday from 10am to approximately 5pm, unless there is an evening service or concert.
• Price: Admission is free.

St. Dunstan-in-the-East, located in the centre of the city, is one of those secret London sites that combines history and nature. Founded in the 12th century and destroyed during the Blitz bombings of 1941, the church has been transformed into a garden of ruins that offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here you can explore the historic structures while enjoying the verdant surroundings.

Admission to the garden is free and, although it no longer offers religious services, its public garden has made it a unique point of interest in London. During spring, the garden comes alive with flowers, and during autumn in London, the landscape takes on a variety of warm colours, so each season offers a different landscape.

In addition to its beauty, St Dunstan-in-the-East is close to other landmarks such as the Tower of London and Borough Market, so you can include it in a tour of the city centre. The nearest tube station is Tower Hill, which offers several bus options.

Useful facts

• Location: St Dunstan's Hill, London EC3R 5DD.
• Opening hours: daily from 08:00 to approximately 19:00.
• Price: Admission is free.

St. James's Church, located in Piccadilly Circus, was designed by architect Sir Christopher Wren and completed in 1684. This baroque church is notable for its picturesque domed tower and ornate interior. In addition, its central location makes it accessible from various parts of the city.

St. James's Church is also notable for its role in supporting the LGBT community The congregation has been a strong advocate for LGBT rights for many years and has organised events and services celebrating diversity and inclusion.

When visiting the church you can visit Southwood Gardens, which is often included in London garden tours. There is a cemetery and memorial dedicated to the victims of World War II. You can also visit the Hauser & Wirth contemporary art gallery, opened in 2009, which features works by both local and international artists.

Another interesting thing to see in the churchyard is the street market. It has been in operation since 1981 and offers food, handicrafts, antiques and collectibles, among other things.

Interesting facts

• Location: 197 Piccadilly, London W1J 9LLL.
• Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 8.30am to approximately 6.30pm.
• Price: admission is free.

If you plan to tour London neighbourhood by neighbourhood and end up in the Bloomsbury district, you can include a visit to St. George's Church, designed by John Soane, and known for its neoclassical architecture. After major conservation work that lasted until 2006, the church reopened its doors. It also included a new exhibition in the crypt on the history of the church, Hawksmoor and Bloomsbury.

The crypt was also transformed into an art gallery in the 1990s and now houses the Museum of Comedy, which is dedicated to the history of British comedy with a rich collection of photographs, posters and costumes.

The opening of the church depends on the availability of volunteers, so it is essential to confirm your visit before you go. Although regular church services are held on Wednesdays and Sundays, visiting hours vary.

Interesting facts

• Location: Bloomsbury Way, London WC1A 2SA.
• Opening times: Varies; check before attending.
• Price: Admission is free.