St Martin-in-the-Fields: A Historic Georgian Church at Trafalgar Square
Historic Georgian church and vibrant cultural venue in the heart of Trafalgar Square, blending architectural elegance with rich community spirit.
St Martin-in-the-Fields is an iconic Anglican church located at the northeast corner of Trafalgar Square, London. With origins dating back to 1222, the current neoclassical building was designed by James Gibbs and completed in 1726. It serves as an active place of worship, a renowned music venue, and a vibrant cultural hub featuring concerts, exhibitions, and cafes in its crypt.
A brief summary to St Martin-in-the-Fields
- Trafalgar Sq, London, WC2N 4JJ, GB
- +442077661100
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Attend a free lunchtime classical concert to experience the church’s renowned music program.
- Visit the crypt café for a unique dining experience in a historic setting.
- Explore the Prayer Garden, a tranquil spot for meditation and reflection.
- Check the church’s event schedule for exhibitions and candlelit evening performances.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Charing Cross station on the Northern or Bakerloo lines, approximately a 5-10 minute walk to St Martin-in-the-Fields. The station is well-served with frequent trains and fully accessible, with no additional fare beyond standard London travel costs.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Trafalgar Square, including routes 6, 9, 11, and 24. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with travel times varying by traffic, typically 15-25 minutes from central London locations. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for fares.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London locations usually takes 10-20 minutes depending on traffic. Note that parking is limited and expensive in central London, so this option is best for direct drop-off and pick-up.
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Walking
If you are within central London, walking to St Martin-in-the-Fields is pleasant and accessible, with flat terrain and pedestrian-friendly routes. Walking times vary but expect 10-30 minutes from nearby landmarks like Covent Garden or Leicester Square.
St Martin-in-the-Fields 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 Martin-in-the-Fields
Origins and Historical Roots
St Martin-in-the-Fields traces its origins to at least 1222, when a medieval church stood amidst farmland on what is now central London. Named after St Martin of Tours, the church’s early history involved a dispute between the Bishop of London and the Abbot of Westminster, resolved in Westminster Abbey’s favor. The church’s location, once literally "in the fields," reflects its rural past before London’s expansion enveloped the area.Architectural Evolution and James Gibbs’ Vision
The church underwent several rebuilds, notably by Henry VIII in 1542 to create a parish church and prevent plague victims from passing near Whitehall Palace. By the early 18th century, the medieval structure had decayed, prompting Parliament to authorize rebuilding. Scottish architect James Gibbs designed the current neoclassical building, completed in 1726. His innovative design featured a rectangular plan with Corinthian columns, a grand portico, and a centrally placed steeple behind the pediment—a radical departure from traditional church layouts that influenced ecclesiastical architecture worldwide.Role in London’s Urban Landscape
Situated on slightly elevated ground, St Martin-in-the-Fields became a visual anchor for Trafalgar Square when the surrounding buildings were cleared in the 1820s. Its elegant façade and soaring steeple complement Nelson’s Column and the National Gallery, contributing to the square’s open urban space. The church’s windows are noted for their beauty both inside and out, enhancing its architectural significance.Spiritual and Cultural Significance
Beyond architecture, St Martin’s has a rich social and spiritual legacy. It has continuously adapted to societal needs, from hosting London’s first free lending library to supporting the homeless and new immigrant communities. The church is known for its open-door policy, welcoming all faiths and providing refuge since World War I. Its active parish life includes a Chinese congregation and the Ho Ming Wah Chinese People’s Day Centre.Music and Community Engagement
St Martin-in-the-Fields is celebrated for its vibrant music program, hosting classical concerts, free lunchtime performances, and candlelit evening events in its acoustically refined interior. The crypt café, opened in 1986 and expanded in 2006, offers a unique social space beneath the church. The venue also hosts exhibitions and community events, making it a lively cultural hub in central London.Legacy and Continuing Influence
The church’s architectural plans were widely published by James Gibbs, influencing church designs across Britain, America, and the Commonwealth. Its central London location, historical depth, and ongoing community work make St Martin-in-the-Fields a landmark of religious, cultural, and architectural importance, embodying centuries of London’s evolving urban and social fabric.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Martin-in-the-Fields Church Path
0.0 km
Georgian masterpiece and spiritual anchor of Trafalgar Square, influencing church architecture worldwide.
Eleanor Cross
0.1 km
A Victorian Gothic Revival monument marking the final resting place of Queen Eleanor’s funeral procession, blending medieval legacy with London’s historic heart.
Nelson's Column
0.1 km
A towering tribute to Admiral Nelson’s naval triumph, standing proudly at the heart of London’s historic Trafalgar Square.
Obelisk Charles James Napier
0.2 km
A contested monument to a complex military figure in London's most iconic public square.
Admiralty Arch
0.3 km
A majestic Edwardian gateway linking Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, embodying Britain's royal heritage and naval history.
16-18 Whitehall
0.3 km
Explore 16-18 Whitehall, the historic site of England’s grandest royal palace and home to the stunning Banqueting House, a masterpiece of classical architecture.
Old Admiralty Building
0.3 km
Historic heart of Britain’s naval command, blending grand architecture with pivotal moments in London’s maritime legacy.
Royal Marines Memorial
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A stirring bronze tribute on The Mall honoring Royal Marines’ sacrifice in China and South Africa, blending art and history in London’s ceremonial heart.
Captain James Cook
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Bronze tribute to the explorer who charted the Pacific and shaped the British Empire
Mary Poppins Statue
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Where cinema's most elegant nanny takes flight in the heart of London's film district.
John Adam St & Adam St
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Explore John Adam Street & Adam Street, heart of the Adam brothers’ neoclassical Adelphi development, blending Georgian elegance with modern London vibrancy.
Royal Tank Regiment Memorial Statue
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A commanding bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring the bravery and teamwork of the Royal Tank Regiment’s WWII Comet tank crews.
Agatha Christie memorial
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A captivating bronze tribute to Agatha Christie, celebrating her literary genius and theatrical legacy in London's vibrant theatre district.
Swiss Glockenspiel
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A 10-metre Swiss timepiece performing mechanical magic in London's West End, where Alpine tradition meets modern precision.
St Paul’s Church Covent Garden
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Historic neo-classical church in Covent Garden, famed as the Actors’ Church with deep theatrical roots and an iconic classical portico.
Unmissable attractions to see
Edith Cavell Memorial
0.1 km
A solemn tribute in central London honoring Edith Cavell’s courage, compassion, and sacrifice during World War I.
London by Night Tours
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Discover London’s iconic landmarks aglow with night lights on an engaging open-top bus tour departing from historic Trafalgar Square.
The National Gallery
0.1 km
Home to one of the world’s greatest collections of Western European paintings, this grand London gallery offers free access to masterpieces from the 13th to the early 20th century.
National Portrait Gallery
0.1 km
Explore the world’s largest portrait collection showcasing British history and culture in a welcoming, accessible London landmark.
Grand Building
0.1 km
A grand Victorian landmark on the Strand, transformed from a luxury hotel into a vibrant cultural and community hub in the heart of London.
London Coliseum
0.1 km
Experience grand Edwardian theatre and world-class opera and ballet at the iconic London Coliseum in the heart of London’s West End.
Trafalgar Square
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant culture and rich history at Trafalgar Square, London's iconic public square and cultural hub.
5 Trafalgar Sq
0.1 km
London’s iconic Trafalgar Square: a historic public plaza celebrating naval triumphs and vibrant civic life in the city’s heart.
The Fourth Plinth
0.2 km
A historic plinth transformed into a world-famous stage for cutting-edge contemporary art in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
Charing Cross
0.2 km
Charing Cross and the Strand: a historic London gateway blending culture, theatre, and vibrant city life along a legendary riverside street.
The Duke of York's Theatre
0.2 km
Historic West End theatre on St Martin's Lane, home to iconic productions and timeless British theatrical heritage.
Garrick Theatre
0.2 km
Experience timeless West End theatre in the intimate, historic Garrick Theatre, where classic charm meets captivating performances.
Benjamin Franklin House
0.2 km
Step inside the only surviving home of Benjamin Franklin and experience 18th-century London through immersive tours and rich history.
Solve A Mystery - London (Pick-Up Point)
0.2 km
Unravel a historic murder mystery through iconic London streets in this immersive self-guided detective adventure.
Canada House
0.2 km
Canada House: Historic Greek Revival architecture meets vibrant Canadian culture in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
Essential places to dine
J Sheekey
0.2 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.3 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.3 km
Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
The Northall
0.3 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
The Garden
0.3 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
Rules
0.3 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.3 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Clos Maggiore
0.4 km
Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
Bustronome London
0.4 km
Dine in luxury aboard a panoramic double-decker bus while touring London’s iconic landmarks with gourmet cuisine and fine wines.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.4 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.4 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Wild Honey St James
0.4 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Punch & Judy
0.4 km
Historic Covent Garden pub blending classic British fare, lively balcony views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London.
Chez Antoinette
0.4 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Crest of London Ltd
0.2 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.2 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
Gifts of London
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Unique Britain
0.3 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Cool Britania
0.3 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
St Martin's Courtyard
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation at St Martin's Courtyard in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
M&M'S London
0.4 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
The Moomin Shop London
0.4 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.4 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
House of Spells
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Step into a world of magic and fandom at House of Spells, London’s enchanting emporium for Harry Potter and fantasy collectibles.
Henry Pordes Books Ltd
0.4 km
London's legendary independent rare bookshop preserving literary treasures on historic Charing Cross Road.
Charing Cross Rd
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Charing Cross Road: London’s iconic street for book lovers, theatres, and vibrant urban culture in the heart of the West End.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
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Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.5 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Harp, Covent Garden
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A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Blind Spot London
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Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
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Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.2 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
Mr Fogg's Tavern
0.2 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
Old Shades
0.3 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
0.3 km
Dive into Blame Gloria’s neon-lit retro cocktail haven in Covent Garden, where legendary rock vibes and wild themed brunches electrify your night.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.3 km
Stylish Covent Garden wine bar serving shareable plates, extensive wines, and cocktails in a lively West End setting—ideal for pre-theatre drinks or group gatherings.
The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
0.3 km
Experience theatrical cocktails and vibrant dining in the heart of Covent Garden’s iconic theatre district.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.3 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
Upstairs At Rules
0.3 km
Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
Mrs Riot
0.3 km
Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
The Spy Bar
0.4 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Covent Garden Social Club
0.4 km
Dive into Covent Garden's dual-world party den: prohibition cocktails below, live piano magic above—West End's ultimate nightlife hideaway for cocktails, cabaret, and endless sing-alongs. (162 characters)
Ku Bar
0.4 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Heaven
0.2 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.
TSQ Club
0.3 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.4 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Penthouse London
0.4 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Tiger Tiger London
0.4 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Luxe Club
0.4 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
The Ivy Club
0.5 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.6 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
0.6 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.6 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Proud Late
0.6 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.
Sophisticats Soho
0.6 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
The Roxy
0.6 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.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.6 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
Club49Soho
0.7 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
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
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Festival / Event Nearby
- 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
