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Contents
St Paul's Cathedral | History, facts, highlights & more
St. Paul’s Cathedral, a 300-year-old masterpiece by Sir Christopher Wren, stands as an iconic symbol in London. Perched atop Ludgate Hill, it's been a site of worship for over 1400 years. Surviving fires and wars, its majestic dome represents prid...
Founded On
1710
Founded By
Sir Christopher Wren
Quick information
RECOMMENDED DURATION
2 hours
Timings
8:30am–4:30pm
VISITORS PER YEAR
2000000
TICKETS
From £ 25
EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD
0-30 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)
Did you know?
St Paul's Cathedral is the fourth church to be built on the site.
St Paul's Cathedral has one of the largest domes in the world, with a height of 366 feet.
The Whispering Gallery in the cathedral is built in such a way that if you whisper in one end of the room, you can hear it in the other end!
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Plan your visit to St Paul's Cathedral
Timings
Location
- Monday to Tuesday & Thursday to Saturday: 8:30am to 4:30pm
- Wednesday: 10am to 4:30pm
Closed on: Sunday
Best time to visit: The best time to explore St Paul's Cathedral is in the early morning, particularly between 8:30am and 11am, when visitor numbers are lower, allowing for a more tranquil experience. Weekdays are also relatively less crowded. If you are visiting on the weekend, aim to visit before 11am.
Detailed St Paul's Cathedral hoursAddress: St. Paul's Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD, United Kingdom
St Paul's Cathedral is centrally located in London's historic district, easily accessible from St. Paul's Underground station on the Central Line.
Nearest landmark: Millenium Bridge (0.3 km)
St Paul's Cathedral directionsSt Paul’s Cathedral highlights
West Front
The West Front of St Paul's Cathedral is distinguished by a grand portico supported by towering columns, leading to an upper colonnade and a detailed pediment. This pediment features Francis Bird’s bas-relief, The Conversion of St. Paul. Above, the statues of Saints Paul, James, and Peter adorn the facade, complemented by two imposing bell towers.
Dome
St Paul's Cathedral features a remarkable double-shelled dome, the second largest globally. It stands 366 feet tall with a cross atop and 34 m in diameter on the outside. This architectural marvel comprises an outer dome, a supportive brick cone, and an inner dome inspired by Michelangelo's St. Peter's Basilica but enhanced with additional structural supports.
The interiors
St Paul's Cathedral is designed for unobstructed views of the altar and pulpit, ensuring full engagement during the Mass. The interior, bathed in natural light from the dome and transept windows, features choir stalls and an organ. The area near the high altar, restored with mosaics after Blitz damage, includes a chapel honoring American WWII service members.
Apse
The eastern end of St Paul's Cathedral features the High Altar and Apse, which was dedicated in 1958 as the American Memorial Chapel. Funded by donations, it commemorates over 28,000 Americans who served in the UK during WWII, with their names inscribed in the Roll of Honour at the chapel's altar.
High Altar
The High Altar of St Paul's Cathedral, crafted from a four-ton slab of Italian marble based on Sir Christopher Wren's original sketches, memorializes WWII casualties. Atop the altar sits a nearly 10-foot-tall cross adorned with stone and silver, flanked by two five-foot gilded candlesticks. An oak canopy, added in 1958, crowns the ensemble.
The clock and bells
Flanking St Paul's Cathedral’s West Front are the Baroque-style West Towers. The southwest tower houses a clock with three faces and two bells, Great Tom and Great Paul. Great Paul, once the UK's largest bell until 2012, tolls for significant events, while Great Tom chimes hourly and marks Royal family deaths, Bishop or Lord Mayor of London passings.
The West Towers
The West Towers of St Paul's Cathedral anchor the West Front in Baroque style. The southwest tower features a tri-faced clock and harbors the Great Tom and Great Paul bells. Conversely, the northwest tower's upper section remains unfilled. Both buildings, with robust walls and Corinthian columns, are complemented by chapels behind them.
The Churchyards
The North and South Churchyards of St Paul's Cathedral are steeped in historical significance. Redesigned in 2008, the South Churchyard mirrors the layout of Old St Paul's Cathedral. Both areas offer secluded garden spaces for events and have been central to London's social and intellectual life, with the North Churchyard hosting gatherings since 1236.
St. Paul’s Cross
St. Paul's Cross, once an eminent preaching cross and open-air pulpit in the grounds of Old St. Paul's Cathedral, London, was a pivotal public platform during the Tudor and early Stuart periods. It hosted significant political and religious announcements and served as a gathering point for sermons and civic rituals until its destruction in the 17th century.
Crypt
This crypt is the largest in Europe, covering 30,000 sq. ft., and has existed since the cathedral’s construction in the 17th century. It is home to many notable tombs, including that of the Duke of Wellington, Admiral Lord Nelson, Sir Christopher Wren, and Florence Nightingale. The crypt also contains several chapels. The Chapel of St. Faith is the oldest, dating to the 12th century, and was originally where the cathedral stands today.
Who built St Paul's Cathedral?
Christopher Wren
Renowned English architect Christopher Wren designed St Paul's Cathedral after the Great Fire of London in 1666. Through five evolving plans that blended medieval and Baroque elements, his work culminated in 1710 with an iconic dome. Wren's 35-year effort on St Paul's solidified his legacy as a pivotal figure in architectural history.
Robert Hooke
Renowned scientist and architect Robert Hooke played a crucial role in designing St Paul's Cathedral alongside Sir Christopher Wren. Hooke provided essential mathematical and engineering insights, particularly for the dome's curvature, and as City Surveyor, he oversaw London's reconstruction after the 1666 Great Fire.
Additional information about St Paul's Cathedral
The cathedral on screen
St Paul's Cathedral, celebrated for its architectural splendor and historical importance, has featured prominently in numerous films, TV shows, and documentaries. Its notable appearances include Lawrence of Arabia (1962), Mary Poppins (1964), various episodes of Doctor Who, Lifeforce (1985), The Madness of King George (1994), and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004). These representations underscore its status as an enduring symbol and iconic London landmark.
Art projects
St Paul's Cathedral has hosted several significant art installations with contemporary expression. In 2014, to mark the centenary of World War I, artist Gerry Judah created a striking nave sculpture depicting a charred tree, symbolizing war's devastation. That same year, American artist Bill Viola introduced Martyrs, a permanent video installation that explores themes of suffering and martyrdom. Hughie O'Donoghue's 2018 St Martin of Tours celebrates the life of St Martin, the patron saint of the Order.
Frequently Asked Questions about St Paul’s Cathedral in London
How long does it take to cover St Paul’s Cathedral?
A visit to St. Paul’s Cathedral typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. This gives you enough time to explore the main areas, including the crypt, the dome galleries, and the magnificent nave.
Can anyone attend worship services at St Paul's Cathedral?
Yes, services are held daily, and all are welcome to attend. Sunday services include the famous choral Evensong, a serene and reflective experience.
How do I get to St Paul’s Cathedral using public transport?
St Paul’s Cathedral is easily accessible by public transport. The closest underground station is St Paul’s on the Central Line, just a two-minute walk away. Several bus routes also stop near the cathedral, making it convenient to reach from anywhere in London.
Does St Paul's Cathedral have facilities for visitors with disabilities?
Yes, the cathedral is accessible to wheelchair users and has facilities for visitors with disabilities, including lift access, multimedia guides, BSL guides with subtitles, disabled parking spaces, hearing loop systems, and accessible toilets.
Are there any special events or services held at St. Paul’s Cathedral?
Yes, St. Paul’s Cathedral hosts various services, family activities, concerts, exhibitions, and special events throughout the year, including Easter and Christmas services. Check the cathedral’s official website for the latest event schedule.
Can I climb to the top of the dome, and what are the physical requirements?
Yes, visitors can climb to the dome's galleries. It involves climbing several stairs, so a moderate fitness level is required.
Can I take photos inside St Paul’s Cathedral?
Photography is permitted inside the cathedral for personal use, but it is prohibited during services and in certain areas such as the Whispering Gallery. Tripods and flash photography are strictly prohibited.
What should I wear when visiting St Paul’s Cathedral?
As a place of worship, visitors are encouraged to dress modestly. Comfortable shoes are also recommended if you plan to climb the dome’s 528 steps to the Golden Gallery.
Are there any dining options inside?
The cathedral has a café in the crypt, serving a variety of snacks, hot meals, and beverages. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a meal in a historic setting.
What items are not allowed inside St Paul’s Cathedral?
Large bags, backpacks, and suitcases are not permitted inside. There is no cloakroom, so it’s best to leave large items at your hotel. Additionally, food, drinks, and pets are not allowed, except for service animals.
Are there any nearby attractions to visit afterward?
Yes, after visiting St Paul’s Cathedral, you can explore other nearby attractions like the Museum of London, the Tate Modern, and the Millennium Bridge, all within walking distance.
Can I host a private event at St Paul’s Cathedral?
St Paul’s Cathedral is available for select private events in the Chapter House, the Crypt, the Wren Suite, the Nelson Chamber, and the North Churchyard, including weddings, baptisms, confirmations, and corporate functions. These are subject to availability and the cathedral’s guidelines.
