St Lawrence Jewry: Wren’s Civic Church in the Heart of London
A historic Wren church beside Guildhall, blending rich civic heritage with striking architecture and serene sanctuary in the City of London.
St Lawrence Jewry is a historic Church of England guild church located next to the Guildhall in London’s City. Originally built in the 12th century, it was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1666 and rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren between 1670 and 1677. It serves as the official church of the Lord Mayor of London and the City Corporation, featuring a richly decorated interior, historic stained glass, and a notable organ. The church was heavily damaged during WWII and restored faithfully by 1957.
A brief summary to St Lawrence Jewry
- Guildhall Yard, London, EC2V 5AA, GB
- +442076009478
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays between 10am and 5pm when the church is open to explore its interiors and heritage displays.
- Attend Sunday bell-ringing sessions to experience the church’s traditional change ringing.
- Look for the gridiron symbol throughout the church, representing St Lawrence’s martyrdom.
- Combine your visit with a walk around the nearby Guildhall Art Gallery and the Roman amphitheatre remains beneath it.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Central Line to Bank station or the Northern Line to Moorgate station. Both stations are about a 7 to 10-minute walk from St Lawrence Jewry. Stations are well connected and accessible, with frequent service. A single journey costs approximately £2.50–£5.00 depending on ticket type.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve the Guildhall area, including routes 21, 43, and 141. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with journey times varying by traffic but typically around 15–25 minutes from central London locations. Contactless payment or Oyster cards are accepted.
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Walking
If you are already in the City of London, walking to St Lawrence Jewry is convenient and rewarding. The terrain is flat and paved, suitable for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. Walking times from nearby landmarks such as the Bank of England or St Paul’s Cathedral range from 10 to 20 minutes.
St Lawrence Jewry location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St Lawrence Jewry
A Medieval Foundation and Its Historic Roots
St Lawrence Jewry’s origins date back to around 1136, built near the medieval Jewish trading area known as Old Jewry, which gives the church its distinctive suffix. Dedicated to St Lawrence, a 3rd-century Christian martyr who was famously roasted on a gridiron, the church’s symbol—the gridiron—appears throughout, including on its weather vane. The original medieval church was an important religious site where figures such as Sir Thomas More preached. It was closely connected to Balliol College, Oxford, which held its advowson from 1280.Rebirth After the Great Fire of London
The Great Fire of London in 1666 destroyed the medieval church, and it was rebuilt by the renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren between 1670 and 1677. This reconstruction was the most expensive among Wren’s City churches, reflecting its civic importance. The new church features a grand east façade with Corinthian columns and a pediment, described in the 19th century as having a purity of Grecian feeling. Its interior is a luminous blend of white and gold, often described as a "sumptuous barn," with few walls at right angles, showcasing Wren’s architectural ingenuity.War Damage and Post-War Restoration
During the Blitz on 29 December 1940, St Lawrence Jewry suffered extensive damage from incendiary bombs, which destroyed much of its interior. Despite this, a small chapel was constructed in the tower base to maintain worship during the war. After the war, the City of London Corporation took over patronage from Balliol College and undertook a faithful restoration completed in 1957 by architect Cecil Brown. The church retains its Grade I listed status, preserving its historic and architectural significance.Civic Role and Artistic Treasures
Today, St Lawrence Jewry is the official church of the Lord Mayor of London and the City Corporation, serving as a place of peace and sanctuary amid the bustling financial district. It houses one of the finest organs in the world, crafted by Johannes Klais Orgelbau, and features remarkable stained glass windows depicting Sir Christopher Wren, master carver Grinling Gibbons, and master mason Edward Strong. The church also contains several preserved monuments and memorials, including those dedicated to Archbishop John Tillotson and notable City figures.Architectural and Cultural Significance
The church’s unusual alignment is thought to reflect its construction atop the site of the Roman amphitheatre recently rediscovered beneath the Guildhall Art Gallery. Its architectural style blends classical elements with Wren’s distinctive Baroque approach, making it a standout landmark in the City. The church’s rich history, from medieval times through the Great Fire, wartime destruction, and restoration, encapsulates the resilience and evolving identity of London itself.Modern Conservation and Visitor Experience
Extensive conservation works were completed in 2023, ensuring the preservation of this historic gem. Visitors can admire its glowing interiors, explore its heritage exhibits, and attend organ recitals and bell-ringing sessions. The church’s location next to the Guildhall places it at the civic heart of London, offering a serene contrast to the surrounding urban energy and a tangible connection to the City’s layered past.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Roman London Wall (St Alphage Garden Section)
0.3 km
Explore the ancient Roman and medieval layers of London's historic city wall nestled within the peaceful St Alphage Garden in Barbican.
London City Wall - Bastion 14
0.3 km
Explore Bastion 14, a medieval bastion built on Roman foundations, revealing centuries of London’s ancient city defenses in the Barbican.
London City wall
0.4 km
Explore the ancient Roman and medieval London City Wall, a monumental symbol of the city’s enduring history and resilience.
Statue of James Henry Greathead
0.4 km
Discover the statue honoring James Henry Greathead, the engineer whose invention shaped London's iconic Underground tunnels.
St Michael's Church : Paternoster Royal
0.5 km
Historic Anglican church on College Hill, rebuilt by Wren and linked to Dick Whittington, featuring stunning stained glass and a Hawksmoor spire.
Cornhill Fountain
0.5 km
A historic cast-iron water pump outside the Royal Exchange, symbolizing centuries of London's civic pride and public health innovation.
London Stone (remaining part)
0.5 km
Discover London Stone, the ancient and mysterious limestone relic at 111 Cannon Street, a symbol of London's enduring history and legend.
113 Cannon St
0.5 km
A distinguished Grade II listed classical building in London’s financial district, showcasing early 20th-century architectural elegance.
The National Firefighters Memorial
0.5 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who served during the Blitz and beyond.
Temple Bar London
0.5 km
Explore Temple Bar, London’s historic ceremonial gateway rebuilt by Christopher Wren, rich with royal heritage and striking 17th-century architecture.
Historic England
0.5 km
Discover the rich tapestry of England's history at Historic England, a key organization dedicated to preserving the nation’s architectural treasures.
Queen Anne Statue
0.6 km
Historic statue commemorating Queen Anne’s reign and the completion of St. Paul’s Cathedral, symbolizing Britain’s royal heritage and resilience.
College of Arms
0.6 km
Discover the College of Arms: A Historic Icon of British Heraldry in the Heart of London, Showcasing Art and Tradition.
Sir William Wallace Memorial
0.6 km
A solemn 1956 memorial to Scotland's greatest patriot, executed here in 1305 for resisting English rule.
St Bartholomew the Great
0.6 km
Medieval sanctuary where nine centuries of English history unfold within Norman and Gothic walls.
Unmissable attractions to see
Guildhall Library
0.0 km
Discover London’s history through the world’s largest city-focused library, housed within the historic Guildhall complex.
Guildhall Art Gallery
0.1 km
Discover London’s rich art heritage and ancient Roman past beneath the striking semi-Gothic facade of the Guildhall Art Gallery.
The City Of London Police Museum
0.1 km
Explore the rich history of London's oldest police force within the City’s historic Guildhall complex.
London's Roman Amphitheatre
0.1 km
Step beneath Guildhall Yard to explore London’s only Roman amphitheatre, a 2,000-year-old arena of gladiators, wild beasts, and ancient spectacle.
Guildhall
0.1 km
Step into Guildhall, London's medieval heart where Roman ruins, grand halls, and legendary giants tell the story of the City’s enduring power and history.
St Mary Aldermanbury Garden
0.1 km
Historic garden marking the site of Wren’s St Mary Aldermanbury church, linking Shakespeare, Churchill, and transatlantic heritage in the heart of London.
St Mary-le-Bow Church
0.2 km
Discover St Mary-le-Bow, the iconic Wren church on Cheapside, home to the legendary Bow Bells and centuries of London history.
1 Poultry
0.3 km
A striking postmodern landmark in London’s financial heart, blending bold design, rich history, and panoramic rooftop views.
St Margaret Lothbury
0.3 km
Discover St Margaret Lothbury, a Baroque masterpiece by Christopher Wren nestled in London's financial heart, rich with history and exquisite woodwork.
One New Change
0.3 km
Discover premier shopping, dining, and stunning rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral in the heart of London's financial district.
St Vedast alias Foster
0.3 km
A historic City of London church blending medieval roots, Wren’s baroque spire, and wartime resilience in a tranquil urban sanctuary.
Watling St
0.3 km
Follow the ancient Roman road that shaped London’s history, once a frontier, battlefield approach, and boundary between kingdoms and boroughs.
London Wall Museum Of London
0.3 km
Explore the ancient Roman city wall and artefacts at the Museum of London London Wall, a unique historical gem in Barbican.
St Mary Aldermary
0.3 km
Discover St Mary Aldermary, a rare 17th-century Gothic Revival church by Wren’s office, blending medieval roots with stunning architecture in London’s City.
St Anne & St Agnes Church
0.3 km
Discover St Anne & St Agnes Church, a historic City sanctuary blending Dutch-inspired architecture with a vibrant musical legacy.
Essential places to dine
Madison
0.3 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
St. John
0.8 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
14 Hills
0.9 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
1.0 km
Experience freshly handcrafted Japanese udon and crispy tempura in a lively open kitchen setting at Marugame Udon Middlesex Street, London’s authentic udon destination.
La Dame de Pic London
1.2 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
1.2 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
1.2 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
George
1.2 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
Sea Containers Restaurant
1.3 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Lyle's
1.4 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.5 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Nest Restaurant Old Street
1.6 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
The Clove Club
1.6 km
Two Michelin stars meet innovative modern British cuisine in a historic Shoreditch Town Hall setting with a unique urban garden.
Ikoyi Restaurant
1.6 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Barbican Shop
0.5 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
Smithfield Market
0.8 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
Bankside Arches Boutique
1.1 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Borough Yards
1.1 km
Discover Borough Yards, a lively London district blending historic railway arches with cutting-edge shopping, dining, and culture near Borough Market.
Middlesex Textiles
1.1 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Petticoat Lane Market
1.1 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
Traders Gate
1.2 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Spitalfields Market
1.2 km
Historic yet vibrant, Spitalfields Market blends East London’s rich heritage with a lively mix of food, art, and shopping all week long.
Tower of London Shop
1.2 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Hay's Galleria
1.2 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Commercial St
1.3 km
Historic East London artery blending industrial heritage, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks in the heart of Spitalfields.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
1.3 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Sclater Street Market
1.3 km
Vintage treasures and eclectic finds in the heart of Shoreditch's bohemian marketplace.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
1.3 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
Fashion St
1.4 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Demon, Wise & Partners
0.4 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.7 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
The Bootlegger
0.7 km
Step into The Bootlegger’s hidden Lime Street basement for expertly crafted cocktails, live jazz, and a true 1920s speakeasy vibe in the heart of London.
Flight Club Shoreditch
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant social darts scene with great food, cocktails, and fun at Flight Club Shoreditch in East London.
Aviary
0.9 km
Elegant rooftop dining with botanical cocktails and panoramic London skyline views in the heart of Finsbury Square.
Black Parrot
0.9 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Punch Tavern
0.9 km
Historic Victorian Gin Palace on Fleet Street, famed for its Punch magazine heritage and vast gin selection in the heart of London.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
0.9 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
The Chocolate Cocktail Club
0.9 km
London’s intimate chocolate cocktail bar blending rich flavors, stylish ambiance, and over 20 unique chocolate-infused drinks.
Dirty Dicks
0.9 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Old Street
0.9 km
A vibrant and stylish cocktail bar in London’s Old Street area, known for creative drinks and a lively urban atmosphere.
The Astronomer, EC1
1.0 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
Moonshine Saloon
1.0 km
Step into London’s Moonshine Saloon for an immersive Wild West cocktail adventure with live actors, games, and bespoke drinks made from your own spirits.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
1.0 km
Discover Shoreditch’s secret speakeasy behind a fridge door, where quirky vintage charm meets expertly crafted cocktails and lively 80s beats.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
1.0 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
0.6 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
London Best Night Clubs
1.1 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
XOYO LONDON
1.2 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
The Hoxton Pony
1.4 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Trafik
1.5 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
Basing House - Shoreditch
1.8 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
Proud Late
1.9 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Carwash Nightclub
1.9 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Ministry of Sound
2.0 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
2.1 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Cirque Du Soul
2.2 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
2.2 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
2.2 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
E1
2.3 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
The Roxy
2.3 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
