St James Garlickhythe: London's Illuminated Wren Church with Medieval Roots
Discover St James Garlickhythe, Wren’s luminous City church with medieval roots, royal bells, and a mysterious mummy in London’s historic Vintry ward.
St James Garlickhythe is a historic Church of England parish church in the City of London, known as 'Wren's Lantern' for its bright, lofty interior. Originally founded in the 12th century, it was rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of London in 1666. The church has deep ties to medieval trade guilds, especially vintners, and houses notable features like the Royal Jubilee Bells and a mysterious mummified figure known as Jimmy Garlick.
A brief summary to St James Garlickhythe
- Garlick Hill, London, EC4V 2AF, GB
- +442036331927
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 8:30 am-5:45 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-5:45 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-5:45 pm
- Thursday 11 am-3 pm
- Sunday 9 am-1 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Sunday mornings to experience traditional services using the 1662 Book of Common Prayer.
- Look for the intricate carvings of doves on the altar table and the historic mayoral sword rest inside the church.
- Don’t miss the Royal Jubilee Bells, installed in 2012, ringing in celebration of Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee.
- Explore the story of Jimmy Garlick, the mummified figure once displayed in the church, now respectfully housed inside.
- Notice the shell motifs around the church exterior, symbolizing St James and reflecting its pilgrimage heritage.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Mansion House station (Circle and District lines), approximately a 7-10 minute walk to St James Garlickhythe. Services run frequently, and a single journey costs around £2.50–£5.00 depending on payment method.
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Bus
Bus routes 15, 17, and 521 stop near Upper Thames Street, a 5-minute walk from the church. Buses operate regularly during the day with fares around £1.75–£2.50.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London locations typically takes 10-20 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £8–£15. Note that traffic congestion charges may apply.
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Walking
From St Paul’s Cathedral, it is a pleasant 10-15 minute walk downhill via Queen Victoria Street and Garlick Hill. The terrain is paved and accessible, suitable for most visitors.
St James Garlickhythe location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about St James Garlickhythe
Ancient Origins and Medieval Significance
St James Garlickhythe's origins trace back to at least the 12th century, with the first recorded mention around 1100 AD. The church's name derives from its location on Garlick Hill, named after the Saxon word 'hythe' meaning a landing place, where garlic was historically sold by ships docking on the nearby Thames. This connection to trade extended to wine merchants, reflected in the church’s location within the Vintry ward and its long association with the Vintners’ Livery Company. In medieval times, St James was a collegiate church served by seven priests and became the burial site for six Lord Mayors of London, commemorated by plaques inside the church.Destruction and Rebirth After the Great Fire
The Great Fire of London in 1666 destroyed the original medieval structure. Reconstruction began in 1676 under the direction of Sir Christopher Wren and his office, with the church reopening in 1682 and completion in 1683. The steeple, possibly designed by Nicholas Hawksmoor, was finished later in 1717. The church’s architecture is Baroque, notable for its high vaulted ceiling—the tallest in the City of London after St Paul’s Cathedral—and abundant natural light streaming through large windows, earning it the nickname “Wren’s Lantern.” The exterior is elegantly simple, with a steeple often likened to an ornate wedding cake, crafted from pure Portland stone.Architectural and Artistic Highlights
Inside, original woodwork such as the altar table carved with doves, the font cover, and churchwarden pews remain from Wren’s time. The marble font features carved cherubs’ heads, while ironwork includes the mayoral sword rest adorned with lion and unicorn supporters. The east window was replaced in 1815 by a painting of the Ascension by Andrew Geddes. A handsome double staircase leads to the gallery housing the historic organ, installed in 1718 by Johann Knoppell. The church also holds the Royal Jubilee Bells, cast in 2012 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee.Curiosities and Spiritual Legacy
One of the church’s most intriguing features is the mummy known as Jimmy Garlick, discovered in 1830 in the chancel vaults. Once a popular curiosity, Jimmy is now respectfully housed in a coffin within the church, his presence linked to ghostly tales and local legend. St James continues to hold traditional services drawn from the 1662 Book of Common Prayer, preserving centuries-old Anglican worship practices. It also serves as the official church of the Intelligence Corps, maintaining the Book of Remembrance.Resilience Through Turbulent Times
During the London Blitz in 1941, a German bomb penetrated the roof and lodged beneath the floor without detonating, later safely removed. The church sustained damage from incendiary bombs and a death watch beetle infestation, necessitating a decade-long restoration completed in 1963, praised as one of the finest restorations of a City church. In 1991, a crane accident during nearby construction damaged the south wall, prompting further repairs supported by the Vintners’ Company, which continues to maintain strong ties to the church.Modern Context and Community Role
Today, St James Garlickhythe stands amid the bustling City of London, its historic charm contrasting with the modern urban environment. The church remains active in worship and community events, hosting services and maintaining its role as a spiritual and cultural landmark. Nearby, a statue of the Barge Master and Swan Marker honors the Vintners’ ancient rights over swan ownership on the Thames, reflecting the church’s enduring connection to London's mercantile past.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Michael's Church : Paternoster Royal
0.1 km
Historic Anglican church on College Hill, rebuilt by Wren and linked to Dick Whittington, featuring stunning stained glass and a Hawksmoor spire.
Historic England
0.2 km
Discover the rich tapestry of England's history at Historic England, a key organization dedicated to preserving the nation’s architectural treasures.
Southwark Bridge
0.2 km
A graceful steel-arched Thames crossing with a rich history, distinctive green-and-yellow detailing, and a key role in London’s illuminated river landscape.
London Stone (remaining part)
0.3 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
0.3 km
A distinguished Grade II listed classical building in London’s financial district, showcasing early 20th-century architectural elegance.
The National Firefighters Memorial
0.4 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who served during the Blitz and beyond.
Statue of James Henry Greathead
0.5 km
Discover the statue honoring James Henry Greathead, the engineer whose invention shaped London's iconic Underground tunnels.
Queen Anne Statue
0.5 km
Historic statue commemorating Queen Anne’s reign and the completion of St. Paul’s Cathedral, symbolizing Britain’s royal heritage and resilience.
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.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
0.5 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
Cornhill Fountain
0.6 km
A historic cast-iron water pump outside the Royal Exchange, symbolizing centuries of London's civic pride and public health innovation.
Pudding Ln
0.6 km
Explore Pudding Lane, a historic London street where the Great Fire ignited, and discover the rich heritage and vibrant culture of the City.
Threadneedle St
0.6 km
Historic Threadneedle Street: London’s iconic financial artery, home to the Bank of England and centuries of economic heritage.
St Anne & St Agnes Church
0.6 km
Discover the serene St Anne & St Agnes Church, a historical Anglican gem in London, offering stunning architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
The London Bridge Experience & London Tombs
0.6 km
Discover London's haunting past at The London Bridge Experience, where history and thrills meet in an unforgettable adventure.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Mary Aldermary
0.2 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.
Bloomberg Arcade
0.2 km
A vibrant blend of independent dining, public art, and Roman history in the heart of London’s Square Mile.
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.
Queen Victoria St
0.2 km
A historic and vital City of London street linking iconic landmarks with Victorian-era urban vision and modern financial life.
City of London
0.2 km
Discover the City of London’s unique fusion of ancient history and modern finance in the vibrant Square Mile.
London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE
0.3 km
Discover the ancient Roman Temple of Mithras beneath Bloomberg’s headquarters in a captivating blend of archaeology, immersive art, and history in London’s heart.
St Mary-le-Bow Church
0.3 km
Discover St Mary-le-Bow, the iconic Wren church on Cheapside, home to the legendary Bow Bells and centuries of London history.
St Stephen Walbrook
0.3 km
Discover the serene beauty and historic grandeur of St Stephen Walbrook, Wren’s architectural gem with its iconic dome and modern artistic altar.
1 Poultry
0.3 km
A striking postmodern landmark in London’s financial heart, blending bold design, rich history, and panoramic rooftop views.
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.
Bankside
0.3 km
Explore Bankside in London for a perfect mix of history, culture, and stunning riverside views amid a vibrant city atmosphere.
Mansion House
0.4 km
Explore Mansion House, the grand Palladian residence of the Lord Mayor of London, rich with history, art, and ceremonial splendor.
College of Arms
0.4 km
Explore centuries of heraldic tradition at the historic College of Arms, London's official authority on coats of arms and genealogy.
St Mary Abchurch
0.4 km
Discover the tranquility of St Mary Abchurch, a historic church designed by Sir Christopher Wren in London's financial district, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Millennium Bridge
0.4 km
Explore the Millennium Bridge, a modern architectural gem in London, linking iconic landmarks with stunning river views and cultural experiences.
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.
George
0.8 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
14 Hills
0.9 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
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.
La Dame de Pic London
1.1 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
St. John
1.2 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.2 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
1.3 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
1.3 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.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
1.3 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
1.3 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Restaurant Story
1.4 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
Mercato Metropolitano
1.4 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
Ikoyi Restaurant
1.5 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
1.6 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Borough Yards
0.6 km
Discover Borough Yards, a lively London district blending historic railway arches with cutting-edge shopping, dining, and culture near Borough Market.
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.7 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Hay's Galleria
0.9 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Barbican Shop
1.0 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
1.0 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.
Traders Gate
1.1 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.
Smithfield Market
1.1 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
Tower of London Shop
1.1 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
j-me original design ltd
1.1 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
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.
Middlesex Textiles
1.3 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Petticoat Lane Market
1.3 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
Twinings - The Strand
1.3 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
1.4 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.5 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
Demon, Wise & Partners
0.7 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
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.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
0.8 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
Black Parrot
0.8 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Punch Tavern
0.8 km
Historic Victorian Gin Palace on Fleet Street, famed for its Punch magazine heritage and vast gin selection in the heart of London.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
0.9 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
Lyaness
0.9 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
1.1 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
Moonshine Saloon
1.2 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.
Nine Lives
1.2 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
Dirty Dicks
1.2 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
Ye Olde Mitre, Holborn
1.2 km
Discover Ye Olde Mitre, a hidden Tudor-era pub in Holborn where history, legend, and cozy charm converge in a secret London alley.
The Old School Yard
1.3 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 Old Bank of England
1.3 km
Historic Victorian pub on Fleet Street housed in a former Bank of England branch with grand interiors and legendary London tales.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
0.3 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
1.5 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Ministry of Sound
1.6 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
XOYO LONDON
1.7 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Proud Late
1.7 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.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.8 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
1.8 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.8 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
The Hoxton Pony
1.8 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
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.
Corsica Studios
2.0 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
Trafik
2.0 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
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.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
2.1 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Heaven
2.1 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Historic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Baroque
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
- Myth & Legends
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
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
