St Mary Aldermary, London
A rare 17th-century Gothic Revival church by Wren’s office, blending medieval roots with stunning architecture and rich London history.
St Mary Aldermary is a historic Anglican church located on Bow Lane in London’s City district. With origins dating back over 900 years, it is renowned for its striking Gothic Revival architecture, rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren’s office after the Great Fire of London in 1666. The church features a spectacular fan-vaulted ceiling, intricate 17th-century woodwork, and stained glass windows commemorating its rich history, including wartime resilience and local heritage.
A brief summary to St Mary Aldermary
- Bow Ln, London, GB
- +442072489902
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 7:30 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 am-4 pm
- Thursday 7:30 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays morning to early afternoon for quieter, contemplative experiences.
- Take time to admire the intricate fan-vaulted ceiling and the 17th-century wood carvings inside.
- Look for the stained glass windows depicting the Great Fire of London and WWII air raids.
- Explore the memorials inside, including those dedicated to James Braidwood and Percivall Pott.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Mansion House station (Circle and District lines), approximately a 5-10 minute walk to St Mary Aldermary. Frequent services operate throughout the day. No additional fare beyond standard zone 1 travel applies.
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Bus
Bus routes 15, 17, 21, and 521 stop within a 5-7 minute walk of Bow Lane, near St Mary Aldermary. Buses run regularly during the day with fares payable by contactless or Oyster card, typically around £1.75 per journey.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can drop you at Bow Lane. Travel times vary from 10 to 20 minutes from central London locations depending on traffic. Expect fares starting around £8-£15.
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Walking
If staying nearby in the City, walking to St Mary Aldermary is pleasant and accessible, taking 10-20 minutes from landmarks like St Paul’s Cathedral. The route is flat and suitable for most mobility levels.
St Mary Aldermary 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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Low-Visibility Conditions
Discover more about St Mary Aldermary
Ancient Origins and Medieval Heritage
St Mary Aldermary stands on a site of continuous worship for over nine centuries, making it one of the oldest churches in the City of London dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The name 'Aldermary' likely signifies 'older Mary,' distinguishing it from nearby churches with similar dedications. The medieval church was extensively rebuilt starting in 1510, financed by Sir Henry Keeble, a wealthy merchant and Lord Mayor of London. Construction spanned more than a century, with the tower completed by 1632. Parish records dating from 1558 are preserved, reflecting the church’s longstanding role in the spiritual life of the City.Reconstruction After the Great Fire
The Great Fire of London in 1666 severely damaged St Mary Aldermary, leaving only parts of its walls and tower intact. The church was rebuilt between 1679 and 1682 under the supervision of Sir Christopher Wren’s office, although Wren’s personal involvement remains uncertain. Unlike most of Wren’s churches, St Mary Aldermary was reconstructed in a Gothic Revival style, closely replicating the medieval predecessor, likely due to parishioners’ wishes and the survival of substantial medieval fabric. This makes it a rare and important example of 17th-century Gothic architecture in London, praised by architectural historians as a chief monument of the Gothic revival.Architectural Highlights and Interior Features
Inside, the church captivates visitors with its magnificent white plaster fan-vaulted ceiling, a design more typical of grand cathedrals. The interior largely reflects Victorian restorations from the 1870s, including a wooden screen separating the nave from the lobby and new reredos. The stained glass windows, mostly installed after World War II to replace those destroyed in the Blitz, depict significant episodes from the church’s history, including the Great Fire and wartime resilience. Notable 17th-century features include a pulpit carved by Grinling Gibbons in 1682, a Jacobean-style font gifted in 1627, and rare wooden sword rests from the same period.Wartime Damage and Restoration
During the London Blitz of World War II, St Mary Aldermary suffered damage from incendiary bombs, particularly losing its Victorian stained glass. The church was otherwise largely spared from destruction. Restoration efforts in the mid-20th century carefully reconstructed the exterior faithful to Wren’s design, using archival photographs. The church today stands as a testament to resilience, blending centuries of history with ongoing worship and community life.Community and Cultural Significance
St Mary Aldermary remains an active Anglican parish, welcoming a diverse and inclusive congregation. It serves not only as a place of worship but as a cultural landmark within the City of London, reflecting the layered history of the area from medieval times through the Great Fire, Victorian era, and modern day. The church is also the regimental church of the Royal Tank Regiment, linking it to military heritage. Its location on Bow Lane places it amidst the historic fabric of London’s ancient streets, inviting visitors to explore its architectural beauty and rich stories.Artistic and Memorial Elements
The church’s stained glass windows are notable artworks, with designs by Lawrence Lee and John Crawford commemorating the church’s dramatic history and London’s wartime defense. Memorials inside honor figures such as James Braidwood, founder of the first municipal fire brigade, and surgeon Percivall Pott. The church’s blend of sacred art, historical memorials, and architectural grandeur offers a profound experience of London’s spiritual and civic heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Michael's Church : Paternoster Royal
0.2 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
0.3 km
Discover the rich tapestry of England's history at Historic England, a key organization dedicated to preserving the nation’s architectural treasures.
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
0.4 km
Discover the statue honoring James Henry Greathead, the engineer whose invention shaped London's iconic Underground tunnels.
Southwark Bridge
0.4 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.
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.
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.
Cornhill Fountain
0.5 km
A historic cast-iron water pump outside the Royal Exchange, symbolizing centuries of London's civic pride and public health innovation.
London City Wall - Bastion 14
0.6 km
Explore Bastion 14, a medieval bastion built on Roman foundations, revealing centuries of London’s ancient city defenses in the Barbican.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
0.6 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
Roman London Wall (St Alphage Garden Section)
0.6 km
Explore the ancient Roman and medieval layers of London's historic city wall nestled within the peaceful St Alphage Garden in Barbican.
Church of Saint Magnus-the-Martyr
0.6 km
Experience the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of the Church of Saint Magnus-the-Martyr, a historical gem in the heart of London.
London City wall
0.6 km
Explore the ancient Roman and medieval London City Wall, a monumental symbol of the city’s enduring history and resilience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Watling St
0.1 km
Follow the ancient Roman road that shaped London’s history, once a frontier, battlefield approach, and boundary between kingdoms and boroughs.
Bloomberg Arcade
0.1 km
A vibrant blend of independent dining, public art, and Roman history in the heart of London’s Square Mile.
St Mary-le-Bow Church
0.1 km
Discover St Mary-le-Bow, the iconic Wren church on Cheapside, home to the legendary Bow Bells and centuries of London history.
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.
St James Garlickhythe
0.2 km
Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of St James Garlickhythe, a serene Anglican church in the heart of London.
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.
1 Poultry
0.2 km
A striking postmodern landmark in London’s financial heart, blending bold design, rich history, and panoramic rooftop views.
One New Change
0.2 km
Discover premier shopping, dining, and stunning rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral in the heart of London's financial district.
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.
Queen Victoria St
0.3 km
A historic and vital City of London street linking iconic landmarks with Victorian-era urban vision and modern financial life.
Mansion House
0.3 km
Explore Mansion House, the grand Palladian residence of the Lord Mayor of London, rich with history, art, and ceremonial splendor.
St Lawrence Jewry
0.3 km
Discover St Lawrence Jewry, Wren’s exquisite 17th-century guild church and the official sanctuary of London’s Lord Mayor, rich in history and serene beauty.
St Vedast alias Foster
0.3 km
A historic City of London church blending medieval roots, Wren’s baroque spire, and wartime resilience in a tranquil urban sanctuary.
Guildhall Library
0.3 km
Discover London’s history through the world’s largest city-focused library, housed within the historic Guildhall complex.
Guildhall Art Gallery
0.3 km
Discover London’s rich art heritage and ancient Roman past beneath the striking semi-Gothic facade of the Guildhall Art Gallery.
Essential places to dine
Madison
0.2 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
14 Hills
0.9 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
George
1.0 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
St. John
1.0 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
1.1 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.
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
1.1 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
1.2 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.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.3 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
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.
Restaurant Story
1.5 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
Mercato Metropolitano
1.6 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
Lyle's
1.7 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Borough Yards
0.8 km
Discover Borough Yards, a lively London district blending historic railway arches with cutting-edge shopping, dining, and culture near Borough Market.
Barbican Shop
0.8 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
0.8 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Smithfield Market
0.9 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
Hay's Galleria
1.0 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
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.
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.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
1.1 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.
j-me original design ltd
1.2 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Middlesex Textiles
1.2 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Petticoat Lane Market
1.2 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
Sugar And Style
1.3 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
Twinings - The Strand
1.4 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
Spitalfields Market
1.4 km
Historic yet vibrant, Spitalfields Market blends East London’s rich heritage with a lively mix of food, art, and shopping all week long.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.6 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
Demon, Wise & Partners
0.6 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.
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.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
0.9 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
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.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
1.0 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
Lyaness
1.0 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Moonshine Saloon
1.1 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
1.1 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
Flight Club Shoreditch
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant social darts scene with great food, cocktails, and fun at Flight Club Shoreditch in East London.
Aviary
1.1 km
Elegant rooftop dining with botanical cocktails and panoramic London skyline views in the heart of Finsbury Square.
The Chocolate Cocktail Club
1.1 km
London’s intimate chocolate cocktail bar blending rich flavors, stylish ambiance, and over 20 unique chocolate-infused drinks.
The Astronomer, EC1
1.2 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
0.4 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
1.3 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
XOYO LONDON
1.5 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
The Hoxton Pony
1.7 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.
Proud Late
1.8 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.
Trafik
1.8 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
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.
Cirque Du Soul
2.0 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
2.0 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
2.0 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
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.
Basing House - Shoreditch
2.1 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
Corsica Studios
2.2 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
Heaven
2.2 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- 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
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
