St Mary Abchurch: Wren’s Hidden Baroque Gem in the City of London
Discover St Mary Abchurch, a hidden Wren masterpiece with a stunning painted dome and exquisite Grinling Gibbons carvings in London’s historic City core.
St Mary Abchurch is a historic Church of England church located in a quiet corner of the City of London, rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of 1666. Renowned for its striking painted dome and exquisite limewood carvings by Grinling Gibbons, it offers a rare glimpse into 17th-century ecclesiastical art and architecture. The church’s intimate interior, rich with history and craftsmanship, remains largely unchanged since the 1680s and reflects centuries of continuous worship and civic tradition.
A brief summary to St Mary Abchurch
- Abchurch Yard, London, EC4N 7BA, GB
- +442076261555
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-3 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-3 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-3 pm
- Thursday 11 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday for quiet lunchtime services and to experience the church’s tranquil atmosphere.
- Look up to admire the painted dome’s intricate celestial choir and Hebrew inscriptions.
- Don’t miss the limewood reredos by Grinling Gibbons, a rare example of his work in a City church.
- Explore the crypt and the marble vault slab beneath the church for a glimpse into its deeper history.
- Check the church’s website for organ recital schedules and special events during your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Underground
Take the London Underground to Cannon Street Station, approximately a 5-7 minute walk to St Mary Abchurch. The station is served by the Circle and District lines. Note that the area is pedestrian-friendly but can be busy during weekday peak hours.
-
Bus
Bus routes 15 and 17 stop near Cannon Street, with a 5-10 minute walk to the church. Buses run frequently throughout the day, but service may be less frequent on weekends. Tickets cost around £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card.
-
Walking
If already in the City, walking is a pleasant option. From Bank Station, it takes about 10-15 minutes on mostly flat terrain. The route passes through historic streets but may be crowded during business hours.
St Mary Abchurch location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Low-Visibility Conditions
-
Windy Conditions
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St Mary Abchurch
Architectural Brilliance by Sir Christopher Wren
St Mary Abchurch stands as a testament to Sir Christopher Wren’s genius in rebuilding London’s churches after the devastating Great Fire of 1666. Constructed between 1681 and 1686, the church is nearly square in plan, measuring approximately 63 by 60 feet, with a height of 51 feet. Its red brick exterior with simple stone dressings and a leaded spire belies the remarkable interior. The church’s dome, spanning over 40 feet without external buttresses, is a pioneering architectural achievement, resting directly on the brick walls and creating a spacious, pillar-free interior. This dome was painted in 1708 by parishioner William Snow, who adorned it with a celestial choir surrounding the tetragrammaton—the Hebrew name of God—bathed in golden light and accompanied by monochrome figures symbolizing Christian virtues.Masterful Woodcarving by Grinling Gibbons
Inside, the church houses one of the finest examples of Baroque woodcarving in London: the reredos behind the altar, crafted by Grinling Gibbons, the preeminent woodcarver of his era. This limewood screen is adorned with intricate swags of fruit and flowers, and a gilded pelican symbolizing the Eucharist and the crest of Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, which has held patronage over the church since the Reformation. The dark Victorian varnish now covering the carvings contrasts with their original pale limewood finish but adds to the intimate atmosphere. Additional woodwork includes an exquisite pulpit by William Grey and a font cover, both dating from the late 17th century.Historical Continuity and Civic Traditions
The church’s history stretches back to at least the 12th century, with its name possibly derived from a Saxon benefactor or a local topographical term. It is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary and has maintained continuous use despite destruction and restoration. Notably, the front pews feature wrought iron sword-rests used ceremonially to hold the Lord Mayor of London’s sword during services, commemorating former parishioners who served as Lord Mayors in the early 19th century. Beneath the church lies a rib-vaulted crypt and a marble slab marking the vault of the Westbrooke family, inscribed with the hopeful motto “Resurgemus” (We will rise again).Survival and Restoration Through Adversity
St Mary Abchurch suffered significant damage during the London Blitz in 1940, particularly to its dome. However, the church was carefully restored between 1948 and 1953, with the dome’s decoration repainted by artist Walter Hoyle. The reredos was removed for safekeeping during the war and returned intact. Today, the church remains a Grade I listed building, preserving its architectural and artistic heritage for future generations.Quiet Sanctuary in the Heart of the City
Tucked away in Abchurch Yard, just off Cannon Street, the church offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling financial district. Its intimate scale and rich decoration provide a unique atmosphere of contemplation and historical resonance. The church hosts regular lunchtime services and occasional organ recitals, and visitors can enjoy the serene churchyard with nearby coffee stalls, blending heritage with modern city life.Symbolism and Artistic Details to Discover
Visitors are invited to explore the many symbolic elements within the church, from the gilded pelican on the reredos to the stained glass commemorating the Fruiterers Company. The painted dome’s angels and virtues invite reflection on spiritual themes, while the historic poor-boxes remind of the church’s charitable traditions. The exterior features subtle historic markers, including an 1841 hydrant cover with a parish marker and a ghost sign, adding layers to the church’s rich narrative.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
113 Cannon St
0.1 km
A distinguished Grade II listed classical building in London’s financial district, showcasing early 20th-century architectural elegance.
London Stone (remaining part)
0.1 km
Discover London Stone, the ancient and mysterious limestone relic at 111 Cannon Street, a symbol of London's enduring history and legend.
Statue of James Henry Greathead
0.2 km
Discover the statue honoring James Henry Greathead, the engineer whose invention shaped London's iconic Underground tunnels.
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.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
0.2 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
Cornhill Fountain
0.2 km
A historic cast-iron water pump outside the Royal Exchange, symbolizing centuries of London's civic pride and public health innovation.
St Michael's Church : Paternoster Royal
0.3 km
Historic Anglican church on College Hill, rebuilt by Wren and linked to Dick Whittington, featuring stunning stained glass and a Hawksmoor spire.
Lloyd's of London
0.4 km
A high-tech architectural masterpiece blending tradition and innovation in the heart of London’s financial district.
Custom House
0.5 km
Historic Custom House on London’s Thames waterfront, a grand 19th-century customs hub echoing centuries of maritime trade and empire.
Southwark Bridge
0.5 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.
St Helen's Church, Bishopsgate
0.6 km
Medieval dual-nave church with 800+ years of history, royal relics, and remarkable resilience.
St Mary Overie's Dock
0.6 km
Historic riverside dock in London’s Southwark, home to the Golden Hinde replica and steeped in medieval maritime heritage.
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.
Queen Victoria St
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Queen Victoria Street, a historic thoroughfare in London, blending modern attractions with rich history.
Bankside
0.6 km
London's cultural riverside gem where world-class art, historic theatres, and Thames views converge in a vibrant South Bank neighbourhood.
Unmissable attractions to see
IMPRINT Church London: St Mary Woolnoth
0.1 km
Historic Anglican church in London’s financial district, blending striking Baroque architecture with rich heritage and vibrant community life.
Lombard St
0.1 km
Discover Lombard Street, London’s medieval banking hub where historic signs and financial legacy meet in the heart of the City.
St Stephen Walbrook
0.2 km
Discover the serene beauty and historic grandeur of St Stephen Walbrook, Wren’s architectural gem with its iconic dome and modern artistic altar.
London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE
0.2 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.
Mansion House
0.2 km
Explore Mansion House, the grand Palladian residence of the Lord Mayor of London, rich with history, art, and ceremonial splendor.
Change Alley
0.2 km
Historic passageway in London’s financial heart, where coffee houses sparked the birth of modern stock trading and commerce.
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.
The Royal Exchange
0.2 km
A historic neoclassical landmark in London’s financial heart, blending centuries of commerce with luxury shopping and fine dining.
Fish St Hill
0.2 km
Historic street leading to London Bridge, shadowed by the Monument to the Great Fire of London, blending centuries of London’s history.
1 Poultry
0.2 km
A striking postmodern landmark in London’s financial heart, blending bold design, rich history, and panoramic rooftop views.
Bloomberg Arcade
0.3 km
A vibrant blend of independent dining, public art, and Roman history in the heart of London’s Square Mile.
Royal Exchange
0.3 km
London’s historic Royal Exchange: a grand neoclassical hub where centuries of commerce and culture converge in the heart of the financial district.
St Michael Cornhill
0.3 km
Discover centuries of history, architecture, and music at St Michael Cornhill, a serene medieval church standing atop Roman London’s ancient basilica.
Pudding Ln
0.3 km
Pudding Lane: Historic street where the Great Fire of London ignited, shaping the city’s future and urban heritage.
Bank of England Museum
0.3 km
Explore over 300 years of British financial history and try lifting a real gold bar at this free, interactive museum in the heart of London’s financial district.
Essential places to dine
14 Hills
0.5 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Madison
0.5 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
La Dame de Pic London
0.7 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
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.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
1.0 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
1.0 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
1.0 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.
Restaurant Story
1.2 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
St. John
1.3 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Sea Containers Restaurant
1.4 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
1.4 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Lyle's
1.6 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.6 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Mercato Metropolitano
1.6 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
Nest Restaurant Old Street
1.8 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Borough Yards
0.7 km
Discover Borough Yards, a lively London district blending historic railway arches with cutting-edge shopping, dining, and culture near Borough Market.
Traders Gate
0.7 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
0.8 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Tower of London Shop
0.8 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Middlesex Textiles
1.0 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Petticoat Lane Market
1.0 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
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.
Bankside Arches Boutique
1.1 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
1.2 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
Spitalfields Market
1.2 km
Historic yet vibrant, Spitalfields Market blends East London’s rich heritage with a lively mix of food, art, and shopping all week long.
Smithfield Market
1.2 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
Commercial St
1.3 km
Historic East London artery blending industrial heritage, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks in the heart of Spitalfields.
Fashion St
1.3 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
Sclater Street Market
1.3 km
Vintage treasures and eclectic finds in the heart of Shoreditch's bohemian marketplace.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
1.4 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.2 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
The Bootlegger
0.3 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.
Demon, Wise & Partners
0.4 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
0.6 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
0.7 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
Moonshine Saloon
0.8 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.
Dirty Dicks
0.9 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
The Astronomer, EC1
1.0 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
The Bell
1.0 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
1.0 km
Discover Shoreditch’s secret speakeasy behind a fridge door, where quirky vintage charm meets expertly crafted cocktails and lively 80s beats.
Nine Lives
1.0 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
Discount Suit Company
1.1 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
Aviary
1.1 km
Elegant rooftop dining with botanical cocktails and panoramic London skyline views in the heart of Finsbury Square.
Flight Club Shoreditch
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant social darts scene with great food, cocktails, and fun at Flight Club Shoreditch in East London.
Black Parrot
1.2 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
0.2 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
XOYO LONDON
1.5 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
London Best Night Clubs
1.6 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
The Hoxton Pony
1.6 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Ministry of Sound
1.7 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
Trafik
1.8 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
E1
1.9 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Basing House - Shoreditch
2.0 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
Proud Late
2.1 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.
Corsica Studios
2.1 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
2.2 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
2.2 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
2.2 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Carwash Nightclub
2.3 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
2.4 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
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
- Mindfulness
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
