- 3-min walk (250 m)
- Pedestrian bridge with direct views of St Paul’s and Tate Modern
- Cost: Free
Top things to do near St Paul's Cathedral
Millennium Bridge
Museum of London
Borough Market
St Paul's Cathedral stands in the heart of the City of London, surrounded by a mix of historic streets, modern skyscrapers, and the River Thames. Within a 20-minute walk, you’ll find world-class museums, lively markets, and iconic landmarks like the Millennium Bridge and Tate Modern. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring London’s rich history, culture, and food scene with minimal planning.
Unlock entry to top attractions near St Paul’s Cathedral, including the Tower of London, The Shard, and Thames river cruises. Save up to 40% and skip ticket lines with one pass.
This striking pedestrian bridge links St Paul’s Cathedral to Tate Modern, offering some of the best skyline views in London. Walk across for a unique perspective of the city’s old and new.
A modern shopping and dining complex with a free rooftop terrace, offering panoramic views of St Paul’s Cathedral and the London skyline. Great for photos and a quick coffee break.
A lively public square behind St Paul’s, home to the Temple Bar Gate and surrounded by cafés and restaurants. It’s a popular spot for lunch or people-watching.
Step back in time at this faithful reconstruction of Shakespeare’s original playhouse. Take a guided tour or catch a live performance in an open-air setting.
Climb this historic column for sweeping views over the City and learn about the 1666 fire that reshaped London.
Soaring above the Thames, The Shard’s viewing platform is London’s highest, with 360-degree views stretching for miles.
A lush indoor garden atop the Walkie Talkie building, Sky Garden offers free entry and some of the best city views.
One of London’s most iconic structures, Tower Bridge features glass walkways and exhibitions inside its towers.
Explore London’s story from prehistoric times to the present, with immersive exhibits on the Great Fire, Roman London, and more.
Housed in a former power station, Tate Modern is one of the world’s leading modern art museums, with works by Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney.
Discover the history of British currency, gold bars, and the secrets of the Bank of England in this compact museum.
Step inside one of England’s oldest prisons and learn about crime and punishment through hands-on exhibits and stories.
View Victorian paintings and descend to the remains of London’s Roman amphitheatre beneath the Guildhall.
An immersive archaeological site showcasing the Roman Temple of Mithras, discovered beneath Bloomberg’s London HQ.
Hop-On Hop-Off buses stop near St Paul’s Cathedral and connect you to landmarks like the Tower of London, Tate Modern, and Borough Market. Enjoy unlimited rides and flexible sightseeing.
Enjoy a free, open-air terrace with unbeatable views of St Paul’s dome and the city skyline. It’s a favorite for photographers and sunset seekers.
London’s highest public garden offers 360-degree views from the 35th floor, with lush greenery and cafés.
Ascend to the 72nd floor for panoramic views stretching up to 40 miles on a clear day.
Climb the spiral staircase for a unique vantage point over the City and the Thames.
Walk across the high-level glass walkway for thrilling views of the Thames and the city below.
Enjoy a scenic riverside stroll from St Paul’s to the Tate Modern, passing the Millennium Bridge and Shakespeare’s Globe.
Explore art and ancient ruins for free in the heart of the City.
Browse London’s most famous food market, sampling free tasters from local producers.
Wander through the atmospheric ruins of a bombed-out church, now a peaceful public garden.
Admire the ornate Victorian architecture and browse boutique shops in this covered market, featured in the Harry Potter films.
A vibrant restaurant with Asian-inspired cuisine and dramatic interiors, offering views of St Paul’s dome from the terrace.
Famous as the “First Dates” restaurant, this modern British spot serves steaks and classic comfort food in a stylish setting.
Enjoy cocktails and contemporary dishes with panoramic views of St Paul’s and the city skyline from this lively rooftop venue.
Casual, all-you-can-eat pizza served in a vibrant, industrial-chic space just steps from the cathedral.
A historic pub rebuilt after the Great Fire of London, known for its cozy nooks, wood-paneled rooms, and classic British ales.
Gordon Ramsay’s modern brasserie offers British-European classics in a relaxed, stylish space near St Paul’s.
A bright, contemporary bar and restaurant with creative cocktails and a varied menu, perfect for brunch or after-work drinks.
Pair St Paul’s Cathedral with nearby icons like The Shard or a Thames river cruise. Combo tickets save money and help you cover more sights in less time.
Interactive exhibits and family trails make this museum a hit with kids, covering everything from Roman London to the Great Fire.
Kids will love exploring the atmospheric ruins and gardens of this former church, now a peaceful public park.
Discover art and ancient ruins, with family-friendly activities and free entry.
Sample treats and explore the bustling market atmosphere, with plenty of options for picky eaters.
Kids will enjoy the lush greenery and city views from this free indoor garden.
Family-friendly tours and workshops introduce children to the world of Shakespeare in a fun, interactive way.
Sip cocktails with panoramic views of St Paul’s and the city skyline at this lively rooftop spot, popular for sunset drinks.
Experience London’s pub culture in this historic tavern, famous for its literary connections and cozy atmosphere.
Catch an evening performance in this open-air Elizabethan playhouse, just across the river from St Paul’s.
Enjoy a drink at the Sky Pod Bar while taking in the city lights from London’s highest public garden.
Sip cocktails with a view at one of London’s highest bars, offering sweeping vistas over the Thames and city skyline.
💡 Tip: For a memorable evening, book a late slot at The Shard’s viewing platform and watch London light up from above.
A lively square behind St Paul’s, home to the Temple Bar Gate and surrounded by shops and cafés.
One of London’s oldest streets, now a bustling shopping destination with a mix of high-street brands and historic buildings.
A covered Victorian market with ornate architecture, boutique shops, and food stalls, featured in the Harry Potter films.
A narrow, historic lane lined with independent shops, cafés, and pubs, offering a glimpse of old London.
💡 Tip: Grab lunch from Borough Market and enjoy it on the steps of St Paul’s or in nearby Festival Gardens for a classic London lunch break.
Path: St Paul’s Cathedral → Millennium Bridge → Tate Modern
Steps & Timing:
Alternative: If you’d prefer shopping, head instead to One New Change for cafés and boutique stores with a rooftop view.
Path: St Paul’s Cathedral → Museum of London → Guildhall → Tate Modern
Steps & Timing:
Alternative: Replace Tate Modern with a leisurely walk along Thames Path toward Shakespeare’s Globe and Borough Market.
Path: St Paul’s Cathedral → Tate Modern → Borough Market → The Shard
Alternative: Replace The Shard with Sky Garden for a free observation deck.
Path: St Paul’s Cathedral → Madison Rooftop → Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre
Alternative: Try Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese for a historic pub experience.
Path: Museum of London → Guildhall Art Gallery → St Dunstan in the East
Alternative: Add a family tour at Shakespeare’s Globe for creative fun.
Path: St Paul’s Cathedral → Millennium Bridge sunset → Sky Garden drinks
Alternative: Book a table at Madison for dinner with a view.
St Paul’s Cathedral is easily reached on foot from many central London attractions. The nearest Underground station is St Paul’s (Central line), with Mansion House and Blackfriars stations also close by.
Numerous bus routes serve the area, and Santander Cycles docking stations are nearby for bike rentals. Walking is the best way to explore the surrounding sights.
Parking in the City of London is limited and expensive. The closest public car parks are at Baynard House (5-min walk) and One New Change (4-min walk), both with hourly and daily rates.
Street parking is scarce and usually restricted during weekdays. Consider public transport or taxis for convenience.
Yes, the area is generally safe and well-lit at night, with plenty of people around. Stick to main streets and avoid quiet alleys late in the evening.
Absolutely. The neighborhood is flat, pedestrian-friendly, and well-signposted, making it easy to explore on foot. Most major sights are within a 20-minute walk.
Local favorites include Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese pub, Borough Market for food, and the One New Change rooftop for city views. Festival Gardens is a peaceful spot for a break.
Festival Gardens, just behind the cathedral, is ideal for a picnic with views of the dome. Postman’s Park is another quiet green space nearby.
Millennium Bridge offers iconic views of the dome, while the One New Change rooftop terrace provides a unique perspective. Early morning and sunset are best for photos.
Walk the Thames Path, visit the Museum of London, relax in Postman’s Park, and explore Leadenhall Market—all free and within walking distance.
Try The Ivy Asia, Madison Rooftop, Paternoster Chop House, and Gordon Ramsay Street Pizza for a range of dining experiences close by.
The Museum of London, Guildhall Art Gallery, and St Dunstan in the East are all family-friendly. Borough Market is great for food-loving families.
Head to the Museum of London, Bank of England Museum, or Clink Prison Museum for indoor activities. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the nearby restaurants.
There are no lockers at the cathedral, but luggage storage services are available at nearby train stations like Liverpool Street and Blackfriars.
St Paul’s Underground station (Central line) is the closest, just a 2-minute walk from the cathedral’s main entrance.
Dogs are welcome in public parks like Festival Gardens and Postman’s Park but not inside the cathedral or most museums.
Yes, the London City Pass includes entry to several nearby attractions, such as The Shard, Tower of London, and Thames river cruises.
One New Change, Cheapside, Bow Lane, and Leadenhall Market are all within a short walk and offer a mix of shopping and dining.
The Millennium Bridge and One New Change rooftop are excellent for night photography, with the dome beautifully illuminated after dark.
Postman’s Park, St Dunstan in the East, and the London Mithraeum are lesser-known spots worth exploring.
Early mornings on weekdays are quietest. Avoid lunchtime and weekends if you prefer a more peaceful visit.
The Lord Mayor’s Show in November, Christmas carol services, and the Thames Festival in September are highlights in the area.
