St Dunstan’s, East Acton
A striking Gothic Revival church with a soaring octagonal spire, embodying Victorian faith and craftsmanship in East Acton.
St Dunstan’s, East Acton, is a striking Church of England parish church built in 1879 in the Gothic Revival style. Endowed by the Goldsmiths’ Company, it features brilliant red brickwork, Bath stone detailing, and a distinctive 136-foot octagonal spire. The church, capable of seating over 800 people, remains an important spiritual and architectural landmark in London’s W3 district.
A brief summary to St Dunstan’s, East Acton
- Friars Pl Ln, London, W3 7AW, GB
- +442087401383
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-9:30 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-9:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-9:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-9:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-9:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-8 pm
- Sunday 8 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday evenings to experience the church’s serene atmosphere and occasional special services.
- Admire the intricate Bath stone detailing on the red brick exterior, especially in natural daylight.
- Explore the churchyard for a quiet moment away from the bustle of East Acton.
- Check the church’s website or contact them for information on community events and concerts.
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 East Acton station, located approximately 1.2 km from St Dunstan’s. From the station, a 15-minute walk through mostly flat urban streets leads to the church. The Underground fare ranges from £2.50 to £4.90 depending on time and ticket type.
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Bus
Bus routes 70 and 283 serve Friars Place Lane near St Dunstan’s. Travel times vary between 20 to 35 minutes from central London locations such as Oxford Circus. Single bus fares cost around £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London to St Dunstan’s takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £15 to £25. Note that traffic congestion is common during peak hours.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, walking to St Dunstan’s offers a pleasant urban stroll of 10 to 20 minutes, depending on your starting point. The route is accessible and mostly flat.
St Dunstan’s, East Acton location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St Dunstan’s, East Acton
Architectural Grandeur Rooted in Victorian Ambition
St Dunstan’s, East Acton, was constructed rapidly between 1878 and 1879, designed by architect R Hesketh in the Gothic Revival style. The church’s bold red brick contrasted with fine Bath stone detailing, crowned by an octagonal broach spire soaring 136 feet above the surrounding landscape. This impressive structure was endowed by the Goldsmiths’ Company, one of London’s historic livery companies, reflecting their commitment to spiritual provision in the growing metropolis. The church was consecrated on 22 July 1879 and could accommodate more than 800 worshippers, marking it as a significant religious and community hub in East Acton.Historical Context and Spiritual Mission
The church’s establishment came at a time when rapid urban expansion in London often left communities without adequate places of worship. The Goldsmiths’ Company sought to address this spiritual destitution by funding the construction of St Dunstan’s on their property. The first stone was laid on 11 May 1878, and the building was completed without any accidents—a notable achievement in Victorian construction. The inaugural services began on 27 July 1879, with the Vicar Designate Rev T. M. Hayter preaching at the evening service. His long tenure of 28 years helped shape the church’s role in the community.Architectural Features and Interior Highlights
St Dunstan’s architecture exemplifies the Gothic Revival’s emphasis on verticality and intricate detail. The octagonal spire is a distinctive landmark visible for miles, while the interior was designed to support large congregations with clear sightlines and acoustics suitable for sermons and music. The use of Bath stone provided elegant contrast to the red brick, highlighting window tracery, arches, and other decorative elements. Though the interior details are less documented, the church’s design would have included typical Victorian ecclesiastical features such as stained glass windows and carved woodwork.Role in the Community and Continuing Legacy
Since its consecration, St Dunstan’s has served as a spiritual center for East Acton, hosting regular services and community events. Its foundation by the Goldsmiths’ Company underscores the historical link between London’s trade guilds and church patronage. The church remains active today, continuing to welcome worshippers and visitors alike. Its impressive architecture and historical significance make it a notable landmark within London’s W3 postal district.Setting and Surroundings
Located on Friars Place Lane, St Dunstan’s sits within a primarily residential and urban area of West London. The church’s towering spire and vibrant brickwork stand out amid the surrounding buildings, offering a visual anchor and a sense of heritage in the neighborhood. The churchyard and immediate environs provide a quiet space in a busy city, reflecting the church’s ongoing role as a place of reflection and community gathering.Preservation and Accessibility
St Dunstan’s is maintained as an active parish church with services throughout the week, including extended evening hours on weekdays. While it does not have a listed building status like some older London churches, its architectural and historical value is recognized locally. The church is accessible to visitors interested in Victorian ecclesiastical architecture and the history of London’s religious institutions.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
