St Alfege Church: A Millennium of Faith and History in Greenwich
Discover St Alfege Church, Greenwich—a historic Baroque masterpiece and sacred site with over 1,000 years of rich history and royal heritage.
St Alfege Church in Greenwich, London, is a historic Anglican church with medieval origins, rebuilt by Nicholas Hawksmoor between 1712 and 1714. It stands on the site where Archbishop Alfege was martyred in 1012 and has witnessed royal baptisms, wartime destruction, and meticulous restorations. The church is renowned for its Baroque architecture, rich musical heritage, and its crypt, which holds notable burials including General James Wolfe and composer Thomas Tallis.
A brief summary to St Alfege Church
- Greenwich Church St, London, SE10 8NA, GB
- +442088530687
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
- Thursday 11 am-4 pm
- Friday 11 am-4 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit the crypt on special open days to explore the burial vaults of notable figures like General James Wolfe.
- Attend a Thomas Tallis Society concert to experience the church’s celebrated musical heritage.
- Admire the stained glass windows that depict key historical events linked to the church and Greenwich.
- Explore the church’s Baroque architecture and look for details by craftsmen Grinling Gibbons and Jean Tijou.
- Learn about the church’s wartime history, including its use as an air-raid shelter during WWII.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich station, then enjoy a 10-15 minute walk through Greenwich town centre to St Alfege Church. The DLR runs frequently with tickets costing approximately £2.50-£5.00 depending on zones.
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Bus
Bus routes 129, 177, 180, and 188 serve Greenwich Church Street, stopping within 200 meters of St Alfege Church. Bus fares are around £1.75 with contactless payment. Services run every 10-20 minutes but may be less frequent on weekends.
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Car
Driving to St Alfege Church is possible but parking is limited in Greenwich town centre. Nearby public car parks charge approximately £3-£6 per hour. Traffic congestion is common during peak hours, so plan accordingly.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to St Alfege Church offers a pleasant experience through historic Greenwich streets. Walking times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your location, with mostly flat and accessible terrain.
St Alfege Church 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 Alfege Church
Ancient Origins and Sacred Significance
St Alfege Church marks a site of profound historical and religious importance dating back over a thousand years. It is dedicated to Alfege, Archbishop of Canterbury, who was brutally martyred by Danish raiders in 1012 after refusing to burden his people with ransom demands. This event established the location as sacred ground, prompting the construction of the first church soon after. Over the centuries, the church evolved through Norman rebuilding and medieval expansions, becoming a pilgrimage destination and a spiritual anchor for Greenwich.Architectural Masterpiece by Nicholas Hawksmoor
The current St Alfege Church was constructed between 1712 and 1714 following the collapse of the medieval structure in 1710. Designed by Nicholas Hawksmoor, a leading architect of the English Baroque style and a protégé of Sir Christopher Wren, it was the first church built under the Fifty New Churches Act of 1711. Hawksmoor’s design features a commanding Baroque façade with towering Corinthian columns, a sculpted pediment, and a distinctive square tower. The interior originally included elaborate wood carvings by Grinling Gibbons and ironwork by Jean Tijou, reflecting the craftsmanship of the period.Royal Connections and Cultural Heritage
St Alfege Church is woven into the fabric of British history. It was the baptismal site of King Henry VIII in 1491 and hosted the marriage of his sister Mary Tudor. The church is also the final resting place of Thomas Tallis, the father of English choral music, who served as organist during the reigns of four monarchs. Other notable figures connected to the church include General James Wolfe, buried in the crypt, and John Flamsteed, the first Astronomer Royal. The church’s stained glass windows depict these historical narratives, enriching its cultural tapestry.Wartime Trials and Post-War Restoration
During World War II, the church’s crypt served as an air-raid shelter for local families. On 19 March 1941, incendiary bombs struck the roof, causing it to collapse and gut much of the nave. Despite severe damage, the walls and tower survived. Post-war restoration led by Sir Albert Richardson faithfully rebuilt the church, preserving Hawksmoor’s original vision while introducing new stained glass windows commemorating the church’s historic figures. The church was rededicated in 1953 and continues to serve as a vibrant place of worship and community.The Crypt and Its Living History
The crypt beneath St Alfege Church is a remarkable space, originally intended by Hawksmoor as a place for the living and possibly a school. However, it became a burial site for wealthy local families, with over 1,000 bodies interred, including General Wolfe. The crypt’s floor level is now raised about three feet due to these burials. It remains a place of fascination, occasionally open to the public, and a poignant reminder of the church’s layered history.Living Legacy and Community Role
Today, St Alfege Church remains an active parish within the Royal Borough of Greenwich, hosting services, concerts, and commemorations such as the Founder's Day for local schools. Its rich musical tradition continues through the Thomas Tallis Society, which holds regular concerts. The church stands as a testament to resilience, faith, and architectural brilliance, embodying over a millennium of English history and community life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site
0.1 km
Explore Maritime Greenwich, where royal heritage, maritime history, and the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time converge in a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bellot Memorial Greenwich
0.4 km
A solemn obelisk in Greenwich honoring Lieutenant Joseph René Bellot’s Arctic bravery and sacrifice during the Franklin rescue expeditions.
Trafalgar Tavern
0.6 km
Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel North
0.7 km
Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
Anchor Iron Wharf
0.9 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
City Hall
3.5 km
Discover London’s eco-friendly City Hall, a striking architectural landmark and vibrant hub of governance and public engagement on the Royal Docks waterfront.
St Anne's Church, Limehouse
3.7 km
Discover St Anne's Church, Limehouse—an 18th-century Baroque maritime landmark with rich naval heritage and mysterious architectural features.
Execution Dock
4.1 km
A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
Shadwell Basin
4.2 km
Experience the peaceful beauty of Shadwell Basin, a serene spot in London perfect for relaxation and scenic walks amidst nature's charm.
King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)
4.2 km
Historic Thames foreshore site where pirates and maritime criminals faced grim justice under Admiralty law for over 400 years.
The Captain Kidd
4.2 km
Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.
Execution Dock House
4.3 km
Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.
Ornamental Canal
4.7 km
Explore the serene Ornamental Canal in London, a picturesque waterway perfect for relaxation, scenic views, and rich history.
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
4.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, a unique blend of nature, history, and community nestled in the heart of London.
International House
5.2 km
Discover the International House in London, a symbol of global unity and vibrant cultural exchange at the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
1 Greenwich Church St
0.0 km
Historic Greenwich Church Street blends centuries of heritage with vibrant shops, eateries, and iconic landmarks by the Thames.
The Greenwich Vintage Market
0.0 km
Discover rare antiques, vintage treasures, and eclectic crafts in the heart of historic Greenwich’s vibrant market scene.
5b Greenwich Market
0.1 km
A historic covered market in Greenwich, London, brimming with artisan crafts, antiques, vintage finds, and global street food in a lively, community-focused setting.
Greenwich Market
0.1 km
Historic Greenwich Market blends antiques, artisan crafts, and global street food in a vibrant, covered London landmark open daily.
Oliver's Jazz Bar
0.2 km
An intimate, candlelit basement jazz club in Greenwich where close-up live music and community atmosphere meet a well-stocked bar.
The Fan Museum
0.2 km
Discover the UK’s only museum dedicated to the history and craft of fans, set in elegant Georgian townhouses in historic Greenwich.
Greenwich Tourist Information Desk
0.3 km
Explore London's maritime heritage at the Greenwich Tourist Information Desk, your gateway to local attractions and experiences.
Cutty Sark
0.3 km
Explore the world’s fastest surviving tea clipper, Cutty Sark, a historic maritime treasure in the heart of Greenwich with immersive exhibits and stunning river views.
National Maritime Museum Gardens
0.3 km
A tranquil garden oasis within London’s premier maritime museum complex, blending history, nature, and family-friendly charm.
Naval College Gardens
0.3 km
A tranquil riverside garden in Greenwich, framed by the Old Royal Naval College and offering views of the Cutty Sark and Canary Wharf across the Thames.
National Maritime Museum
0.3 km
Explore Britain’s rich naval history at the world’s largest maritime museum, set in scenic Greenwich with free entry and engaging galleries for all ages.
Cutty Sark Gardens
0.3 km
A serene riverside park in Greenwich showcasing the historic Cutty Sark tea clipper and offering scenic Thames views and vibrant cultural connections.
Painted Hall
0.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Painted Hall, a Baroque masterpiece with vivid ceilings and walls celebrating Britain’s naval and royal heritage.
Trinity Laban
0.4 km
The UK's premier conservatoire for music and contemporary dance, set within the historic Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich.
Greenwich Pier
0.4 km
Historic Greenwich Pier offers scenic river cruises and easy access to London's maritime landmarks and vibrant cultural heritage along the Thames.
Essential places to dine
Bill's Greenwich Restaurant
0.0 km
A cozy British restaurant in Greenwich offering hearty dishes, friendly service, and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere from breakfast to late dinner.
Sticks'n'Sushi Greenwich
0.1 km
Experience fresh sushi and Nordic-inspired grilled sticks in stylish Greenwich, where maritime history meets modern Japanese cuisine.
Pho Street
0.1 km
Authentic Vietnamese pho, banh mi, and bubble tea served in a lively Greenwich setting with fresh flavors and warm hospitality.
Goddards at Greenwich
0.1 km
Experience authentic British pie and mash at Goddards at Greenwich, a historic eatery serving traditional comfort food in a welcoming setting.
The Sail Loft, Greenwich
0.4 km
Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.
The Prince of Greenwich Pub
0.5 km
A vibrant gastropub in Greenwich blending quirky museum charm, authentic Italian cuisine, and lively jazz in a historic London setting.
The Hill
0.6 km
A vibrant Mediterranean and Latin American fusion restaurant with a cozy garden setting in the heart of Greenwich.
Midpoint Restaurant
0.9 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
Sefa Restaurant
0.9 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
Restaurant Story
5.3 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
La Dame de Pic London
5.8 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
6.0 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
6.0 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
14 Hills
6.1 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
George
6.2 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Cutty Sark Gift Shop
0.1 km
Discover maritime magic and London keepsakes at this Greenwich gem, brimming with Cutty Sark-inspired treasures and souvenirs just steps from the historic clipper ship.
Joli Vintage Living
0.1 km
Discover timeless threads and retro treasures at Joli Vintage Living, Greenwich's gem for sustainable, era-spanning style on charming Nelson Road.
Dragonfly Lifestyle
0.1 km
A small Greenwich boutique blending mindful womenswear, handcrafted jewellery and wellbeing finds in a calm, curated shop environment.
Arc Angel Boutique London
0.1 km
Elegant womenswear samples, striking accessories, and quirky gifts await in Greenwich Market's stylish haven, where fashion meets historic charm.
Made in Greenwich
0.1 km
Discover Greenwich's handmade heart: a not-for-profit haven where local makers' treasures shine, fueling community creativity one unique gift at a time.
Rare Books & Curios
0.1 km
A compact Greenwich Market stall overflowing with rare and vintage books, maps and printed curios that reward slow, tactile browsing.
Greenwich Gifts Candy Land
0.1 km
Dive into a candy wonderland on Greenwich Church Street, where British classics and global sweets make perfect edible souvenirs in London's historic heart.
The Junk Shop
0.4 km
Lose yourself in Greenwich's maze-like antique wonderland, where eclectic treasures, a cozy tearoom, and quirky finds await around every cluttered corner.
Painted hall gift shop
0.4 km
Souvenirs and stories from Greenwich's naval heart—tote bags, books, and treasures evoking the Painted Hall's timeless splendor.
La Boutique Vintage
0.9 km
Unearth retro home treasures in Greenwich's cozy furniture nook—sustainable style with vintage soul.
Bermondsey Antique Market
5.3 km
Uncover vintage treasures at London’s oldest antiques market, where history meets haggling every Friday morning in Bermondsey Square.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
5.3 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
Tower of London Shop
5.7 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Traders Gate
5.7 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.
Hay's Galleria
5.8 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kings Arms
0.1 km
Classic Greenwich pub with hearty grub, real ales, dog-friendly beer garden, and riverside vibes—perfect for post-sightseeing pints.
Ye Olde Rose & Crown Greenwich
0.2 km
Traditional Greenwich pub pouring real ales and pub classics next to the theatre—perfect for families, dogs, and post-show pints in historic surrounds.
The Gipsy Moth
0.2 km
Historic Greenwich pub with Cutty Sark views, hearty grub, beer garden bliss, and live music vibes—perfect for nautical nostalgia and relaxed revelry.
The Lost Hour
0.3 km
Greenwich's craft beer epicenter where sports, pub grub, and late-night vibes collide—lose yourself in the fun on High Road.
Mindful Mixology
0.4 km
A compact Greenwich cocktail bar focused on lower-sugar craft drinks, hands-on masterclasses and a calm riverside atmosphere.
Greenwich Town Social Club
1.4 km
Cozy Greenwich social hub for cheap drinks, karaoke nights, and neighborhood camaraderie on Blackwall Lane.
Td 338 Bar
1.9 km
Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.
All Bar One Greenwich
2.6 km
Elevate your O2 experience at this multi-floor haven of wines, cocktails, and event-night energy—perfect for pre-show feasts and lively toasts amid London's entertainment epicenter.
Eighteen Sky Bar
2.6 km
Elevate your evening with crafted cocktails and 360-degree skyline views from the 18th floor over Thames, Canary Wharf, and The O2.
Drink At Bob's
3.3 km
Lively cocktail bar in Hither Green blending expertly crafted drinks, live music, and a welcoming vibe with vegan-friendly options.
The Midnight Apothecary
3.8 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
Nine Lives
5.6 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
5.8 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
The Old School Yard
5.9 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
5.9 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 Bunker
1.3 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
The Hatch Club
1.9 km
A late-night New Cross club with a roomy dancefloor, VIP sections and bass-forward DJ nights—built for parties and private events.
The Venue
1.9 km
A vibrant multi-room nightclub in New Cross, London, blending diverse music, cutting-edge sound, and a welcoming atmosphere since 1989.
American Express Invites Lounge
2.6 km
A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.
(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
2.7 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
LA Lounge
3.3 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
CQ LOUNGE
4.1 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
Club 701
4.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
E1
4.8 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Corsica Studios
6.3 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
The Steel Yard
6.5 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Ministry of Sound
6.5 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
The Hoxton Pony
7.0 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Trafik
7.1 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
Basing House - Shoreditch
7.2 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Baroque
- Historic
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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
