St Vedast-alias-Foster: A Resilient City Church with Medieval Roots
A historic City of London church blending medieval roots, Wren’s baroque spire, and wartime resilience in a tranquil urban sanctuary.
St Vedast-alias-Foster, located on Foster Lane in London, is a historic Anglican church with origins dating back to the 12th century. Rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of London and restored following wartime bomb damage, it features a distinctive baroque spire and a rich heritage linked to the French saint Vedast. The church's architecture and tranquil atmosphere offer visitors a glimpse into London's ecclesiastical past amidst the modern cityscape.
A brief summary to St Vedast alias Foster
- 4 Foster Ln, London, EC2V 6HH, GB
- +442076063998
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-3 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-3 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-3 pm
- Thursday 10 am-3 pm
- Friday 10 am-3 pm
- Sunday 11 am-12 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter atmosphere and to appreciate the church’s architectural details.
- Explore the adjacent rectory courtyard to see the carved stone head of Canon Mortlock by Jacob Epstein.
- Attend a Sunday service to experience the church’s collegiate-style seating and historic liturgical setting.
- Look up to admire the intricate three-tier baroque spire, one of the most ornate in the City of London.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Central Line to St Paul's station, approximately a 6-10 minute walk to St Vedast-alias-Foster. The station is well-connected and accessible, with frequent services. No additional fare beyond standard London Underground fares applies.
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Bus
Bus routes 8, 25, and 242 serve the vicinity of Foster Lane, with stops within a 5-8 minute walk. Buses run regularly throughout the day, and payment is via Oyster card or contactless payment, costing a standard single fare.
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Walking
From St Paul's Cathedral, a 7-minute walk along pedestrian-friendly streets leads to the church. The terrain is flat and suitable for most visitors, including those with limited mobility.
St Vedast alias Foster 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 Vedast alias Foster
An Ancient Foundation Amidst the City
St Vedast-alias-Foster stands on a site with a church established by at least 1170, dedicated to Saint Vedast, a French bishop and miracle worker from the early medieval period. The dedication likely reflects the influence of the Flemish community in medieval London, as the saint was venerated primarily in northern France and Belgium. The church's name evolved over centuries, with "Foster" being an Anglicisation of "Vedast" or "Vaast," leading to its unique dual name. Foster Lane itself was once known as St Vedas Lane, underscoring the church’s longstanding local significance.Wren’s Rebuilding After the Great Fire
Although the original medieval church was damaged in the Great Fire of London in 1666, it was not completely destroyed. The rebuilding, undertaken between 1670 and 1673 under Sir Christopher Wren’s office, was the most economical among his City churches. The reconstruction incorporated parts of the medieval fabric, notably the south wall, which survived and was revealed during restoration work in the 1990s. The tower was rebuilt in the 1690s, and a striking three-tier baroque spire, possibly designed by Nicholas Hawksmoor, was added in the early 18th century, giving the church its distinctive skyline presence.Surviving Wartime Devastation and Post-War Renewal
St Vedast suffered severe damage during the London Blitz of 1940-41, when incendiary and high-explosive bombs devastated much of the area around St Paul’s Cathedral. The church’s interior was gutted, leaving behind a shell and rubble, though the tower survived largely intact. Post-war restoration led by architect Stephen Dykes Bower from 1953 rebuilt the church within the old walls and re-roofed it, preserving its historical character. Adjacent additions include a parish room and a Georgian-style rectory, which houses a notable mural by Hans Feibusch and a carved stone head of Canon Mortlock by Jacob Epstein.Architectural Character and Interior Layout
The church’s interior is arranged in a collegiate style, with pews facing each other across the nave, creating an intimate and dignified worship space. The design reflects both its post-fire rebuilding and post-war restoration, blending 17th-century elements with mid-20th-century ecclesiastical architecture. While the church historically lacked stained glass, its windows were adorned with painted transparent blinds depicting scriptural scenes. The baroque spire remains one of the most ornate in the City, contributing to the church’s architectural significance.Cultural and Historical Significance
St Vedast-alias-Foster is notable for its unusual dedication and name, reflecting the layered history of London’s immigrant communities and religious heritage. The poet Robert Herrick was baptized here, adding literary interest. The church’s survival through fire, war, and restoration symbolizes resilience and continuity amid the evolving City of London. It also holds connections to prominent figures such as Sir John Betjeman, who advocated for its preservation, and Canon Mortlock, a key figure in its mid-20th-century revival.Present-Day Atmosphere and Role
Today, St Vedast-alias-Foster offers a peaceful sanctuary within the bustling financial district. Its historic fabric, combined with tranquil ambience and architectural charm, invites contemplation and appreciation of London’s ecclesiastical and cultural layers. The church remains active, hosting services and community events, while its location near landmarks like St Paul’s Cathedral makes it a hidden gem for visitors exploring the City’s rich heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Temple Bar London
0.2 km
Explore Temple Bar, London’s historic ceremonial gateway rebuilt by Christopher Wren, rich with royal heritage and striking 17th-century architecture.
The National Firefighters Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who served during the Blitz and beyond.
Queen Anne Statue
0.3 km
Historic statue commemorating Queen Anne’s reign and the completion of St. Paul’s Cathedral, symbolizing Britain’s royal heritage and resilience.
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.
Roman London Wall (St Alphage Garden Section)
0.4 km
Explore the ancient Roman and medieval layers of London's historic city wall nestled within the peaceful St Alphage Garden in Barbican.
Sir William Wallace Memorial
0.5 km
A solemn 1956 memorial to Scotland's greatest patriot, executed here in 1305 for resisting English rule.
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.
Ludgate Circus
0.6 km
Historic Victorian junction where London's ancient Ludgate once stood, blending rich legend, architecture, and urban vitality.
Historic England
0.6 km
Discover the rich tapestry of England's history at Historic England, a key organization dedicated to preserving the nation’s architectural treasures.
Statue of James Henry Greathead
0.6 km
Discover the statue honoring James Henry Greathead, the engineer whose invention shaped London's iconic Underground tunnels.
London Stone (remaining part)
0.6 km
Discover London Stone, the ancient and mysterious limestone relic at 111 Cannon Street, a symbol of London's enduring history and legend.
IMPRINT Church London: St Mary Woolnoth
0.6 km
Explore the historic IMPRINT Church London: St Mary Woolnoth, a stunning Anglican church offering a blend of spirituality, architecture, and community in the heart of London.
113 Cannon St
0.6 km
A distinguished Grade II listed classical building in London’s financial district, showcasing early 20th-century architectural elegance.
Millennium Bridge
0.6 km
Walk London’s sleek 'Wobbly Bridge' between St Paul’s and Tate Modern, with iconic Thames views and a fascinating engineering story.
Unmissable attractions to see
One New Change
0.1 km
Discover premier shopping, dining, and stunning rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral in the heart of London's financial district.
St Anne & St Agnes Church
0.2 km
Discover St Anne & St Agnes Church, a historic City sanctuary blending Dutch-inspired architecture with a vibrant musical legacy.
St. Paul's Cathedral
0.2 km
Explore the architectural beauty and spiritual significance of St. Paul's Cathedral, a must-visit landmark in the heart of London, offering stunning views and rich history.
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.
Postman's Park
0.2 km
A serene London park honoring everyday heroes through a unique memorial of selfless sacrifice, nestled near St Paul’s Cathedral.
Watling St
0.2 km
Follow the ancient Roman road that shaped London’s history, once a frontier, battlefield approach, and boundary between kingdoms and boroughs.
St Botolph’s-without-Aldersgate
0.2 km
Historic Georgian church at London’s eastern City gate, blending medieval roots with Victorian artistry and community resilience.
Guildhall Library
0.2 km
Discover London’s history through the world’s largest city-focused library, housed within the historic Guildhall complex.
The City Of London Police Museum
0.3 km
Explore the rich history of London's oldest police force within the City’s historic Guildhall complex.
St Lawrence Jewry
0.3 km
Discover St Lawrence Jewry, Wren’s exquisite 17th-century guild church and the official sanctuary of London’s Lord Mayor, rich in history and serene beauty.
St Mary Aldermanbury Garden
0.3 km
Historic garden marking the site of Wren’s St Mary Aldermanbury church, linking Shakespeare, Churchill, and transatlantic heritage in the heart of London.
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.
Guildhall Art Gallery
0.3 km
Discover London’s rich art heritage and ancient Roman past beneath the striking semi-Gothic facade of the Guildhall Art Gallery.
Queen Victoria St
0.3 km
A historic and vital City of London street linking iconic landmarks with Victorian-era urban vision and modern financial life.
Essential places to dine
Madison
0.2 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
St. John
0.7 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Sea Containers Restaurant
1.0 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
14 Hills
1.1 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.2 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
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.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
1.3 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.
Ikoyi Restaurant
1.3 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
La Dame de Pic London
1.4 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
1.4 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
1.4 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Wahaca Southbank
1.6 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Sarastro
1.6 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
1.7 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Barbican Shop
0.6 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
0.6 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
The Royal Exchange
0.6 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.9 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.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
1.1 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
1.1 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.
j-me original design ltd
1.2 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
London Silver Vaults
1.2 km
The world's largest underground marketplace for fine antique and contemporary silver, hidden beneath historic Chancery Lane.
Twinings - The Strand
1.2 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
Sugar And Style
1.2 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
The Store X
1.3 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Middlesex Textiles
1.4 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Hay's Galleria
1.4 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Traders Gate
1.4 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black Parrot
0.6 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Punch Tavern
0.6 km
Historic Victorian Gin Palace on Fleet Street, famed for its Punch magazine heritage and vast gin selection in the heart of London.
Demon, Wise & Partners
0.7 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
The Chocolate Cocktail Club
0.8 km
London’s intimate chocolate cocktail bar blending rich flavors, stylish ambiance, and over 20 unique chocolate-infused drinks.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.9 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
Ye Olde Mitre, Holborn
0.9 km
Discover Ye Olde Mitre, a hidden Tudor-era pub in Holborn where history, legend, and cozy charm converge in a secret London alley.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
0.9 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
The Bootlegger
0.9 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.
Lyaness
1.0 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Flight Club Shoreditch
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant social darts scene with great food, cocktails, and fun at Flight Club Shoreditch in East London.
The Old Bank of England
1.1 km
Historic Victorian pub on Fleet Street housed in a former Bank of England branch with grand interiors and legendary London tales.
Aviary
1.1 km
Elegant rooftop dining with botanical cocktails and panoramic London skyline views in the heart of Finsbury Square.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Old Street
1.2 km
A vibrant and stylish cocktail bar in London’s Old Street area, known for creative drinks and a lively urban atmosphere.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
1.2 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
Dirty Dicks
1.2 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
0.7 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
1.0 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
XOYO LONDON
1.4 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
The Hoxton Pony
1.6 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Proud Late
1.6 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
1.7 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Trafik
1.7 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
1.8 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Ministry of Sound
1.9 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
Cirque Du Soul
2.0 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
2.0 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
2.0 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Basing House - Shoreditch
2.0 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
The Roxy
2.1 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.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
2.1 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage 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
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
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
