St Margaret Lothbury: A Historic Wren Church in the Heart of London
Discover St Margaret Lothbury, a historic Wren church with exquisite woodwork and deep City of London ties, standing over the hidden River Walbrook.
St Margaret Lothbury is a Church of England parish church located on Lothbury in the City of London. Originally recorded in 1185, it was rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of London in 1666. The church houses exquisite 17th-century woodwork, including a baptismal font believed to be carved by Grinling Gibbons, and stained glass windows celebrating City Livery Companies. It remains an active parish and a symbol of London's rich ecclesiastical heritage.
A brief summary to St Margaret Lothbury
- Lothbury, London, EC2R 7HH, GB
- +442077264878
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 7 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-6 pm
- Thursday 7 am-6 pm
- Friday 7 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday mornings or early evenings to experience the church’s tranquil atmosphere when services for City workers are held.
- Look for the baptismal font carved by Grinling Gibbons and the rare choir screen relocated from other historic City churches.
- Notice the stained glass windows dedicated to various City Livery Companies, reflecting the church’s unique civic connections.
- Observe the fine clock on the church tower, a historic feature overlooking the street of Lothbury.
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 Bank station, located approximately 600 meters from St Margaret Lothbury. The journey from central London takes about 10-15 minutes. Bank station is well-served but can be crowded during peak hours. No additional fare is required beyond standard London Underground ticketing.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Lothbury, including routes 8, 11, and 23. Travel times vary from 20 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. Buses operate frequently throughout the day, but service may be less frequent on weekends and public holidays. Contactless payment or Oyster cards are accepted.
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Walking
If you are in the City of London area, walking to St Margaret Lothbury is a pleasant option. From landmarks like the Bank of England or Mansion House, expect a 5-10 minute walk on mostly flat, paved streets. The route is accessible but can be busy during business hours.
St Margaret Lothbury 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 Margaret Lothbury
Origins and Early History of St Margaret Lothbury
St Margaret Lothbury’s history stretches back to at least 1185, when it was first recorded as linked with Barking Abbey. The church was rebuilt in the 15th century, notably funded in 1440 by Robert Large, a former Lord Mayor of London and the master under whom William Caxton, England’s first printer, apprenticed. The name "Lothbury" likely derives from medieval metalworking trades that once dominated the area, with the street historically known for noisy founders and metalworkers, giving rise to its distinctive name.Reconstruction After the Great Fire
The original medieval church was destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666. The current building was designed and rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren between 1686 and 1690, embodying Baroque architectural style. The church’s tower, completed in 1700, was designed by Robert Hooke, Wren’s chief assistant. St Margaret Lothbury is one of the few Wren churches that sustained only minor damage during World War II, preserving much of its historic fabric.Architectural and Artistic Highlights
Inside, St Margaret Lothbury is renowned for its exceptional 17th-century woodwork, much of which was salvaged from other demolished City churches. The baptismal font, attributed to the master woodcarver Grinling Gibbons, features cherub faces and biblical scenes such as the dove returning to Noah’s Ark. The church also houses a rare choir screen and pulpit sounding board from All Hallows-the-Great, alongside painted panels of Moses and Aaron from the demolished St Christopher-le-Stocks. The organ, built in 1801 by George Pike England, retains nearly all its original pipework.Symbolism and Connections to the City of London
The stained glass windows are modern additions that celebrate the church’s longstanding connections with several City of London Livery Companies, including the Glovers, Tylers and Bricklayers, Armourers and Brasiers, and the Scientific Instrument Makers. These windows reflect the church’s role as the official church for five Livery Companies, two Ward Clubs, and two Professional Institutes, as well as its ties to the financial institutions nearby.Unique Features and Surroundings
A remarkable but little-known feature of St Margaret Lothbury is that it is built over the River Walbrook, a subterranean stream flowing beneath the church’s foundations. This has caused structural challenges over the centuries, including a notable restoration effort in the 1980s. The church stands on a short street called Lothbury, adjacent to the Bank of England, embedding it deeply in the City’s historic and financial heart.Current Role and Parish Life
Today, St Margaret Lothbury continues to serve as an active parish church, holding services primarily during weekdays for City workers. The parish has expanded over time by incorporating seven neighboring parishes lost to fire, war, or urban development. Despite its central location and rich history, no Sunday services are held due to low attendance, reflecting its role as a church for the working City community rather than a residential parish. This blend of history, art, and ongoing community function makes St Margaret Lothbury a fascinating glimpse into London’s ecclesiastical and civic past, preserved within a modest yet richly adorned Wren church.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
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
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For the eco-conscious traveler
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For the kind of experience you’re after
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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
