St Mary Aldermary: London's Gothic Revival Gem
Discover St Mary Aldermary, a rare 17th-century Gothic Revival church in London, famed for its stunning fan-vaulted ceiling and rich history.
St Mary Aldermary, located on Bow Lane in London, is a remarkable Anglican church renowned for its rare 17th-century Gothic Revival architecture. Originally medieval, it was rebuilt after the Great Fire of London in 1666 under the supervision of Sir Christopher Wren’s office, preserving much of its Gothic character. Its stunning fan-vaulted ceiling, historic pulpit carved by Grinling Gibbons, and evocative stained glass windows make it a unique spiritual and architectural landmark in the City of London.
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 a weekday morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and natural light illuminating the fan-vaulted ceiling.
- Take time to admire the intricate wooden pulpit carved by Grinling Gibbons, a masterpiece of 17th-century craftsmanship.
- Explore the stained glass windows to learn about the church’s dramatic history, including depictions of the Great Fire and WWII.
- Check the church’s schedule for special lectures or musical events that continue its centuries-old tradition.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Central Line to St Paul's Station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk to St Mary Aldermary. The station is well-serviced with frequent trains and is accessible. No parking available nearby; walking through the City streets offers a historic experience.
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Bus
Bus routes 8, 25, and 242 serve Bow Lane with stops within a 5-minute walk of the church. Buses run frequently throughout the day with standard London fare. Be mindful that traffic congestion can affect journey times during peak hours.
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Walking
From London Bridge or Bank stations, allow 15-20 minutes of walking through the historic City of London streets. The terrain is flat and suitable for most visitors, including those with limited mobility.
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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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St Mary Aldermary
An Ancient Site with Deep Roots
St Mary Aldermary stands on a site with over 900 years of continuous Christian worship, making it one of the oldest churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary in the City of London. The name 'Aldermary' likely signifies 'Older Mary,' distinguishing it from other St Mary churches nearby. The medieval church was rebuilt in the early 16th century, financed by Sir Henry Keeble, a wealthy merchant and Lord Mayor of London, who also lies buried beneath its floor. Parish registers dating from 1558 reflect its long-standing role in the community.Surviving the Great Fire and Rebirth in Gothic Style
In 1666, the Great Fire of London devastated St Mary Aldermary, leaving only parts of its walls and tower intact. Unlike many of Sir Christopher Wren’s churches rebuilt in classical styles, St Mary Aldermary was reconstructed in a distinctive Gothic Revival style between 1679 and 1682, overseen by Wren’s office. This choice, unusual for the period, was likely influenced by the parishioners’ attachment to the original Gothic design and the survival of medieval structural elements. The reconstruction was funded largely by a legacy from Henry Rogers, whose widow ensured the church was rebuilt as closely as possible to its predecessor.Architectural Highlights and Interior Treasures
The church’s interior is dominated by an extraordinary white plaster fan-vaulted ceiling, reminiscent of grand cathedrals, designed to inspire awe and draw the eye heavenward. The pulpit, carved in 1682 by the renowned woodcarver Grinling Gibbons, is a highlight, alongside the 17th-century font and surrounding railings. Much of the interior furnishings date from a Victorian restoration in the 1870s, including a wooden screen and reredos. The stained glass windows, mainly installed after World War II to replace those destroyed in the Blitz, vividly depict the church’s dramatic history, including the Great Fire and wartime resilience.Historical and Cultural Significance
St Mary Aldermary has been a center for religious lectures since the late 16th century, inheriting a lectureship from the demolished St Antholin’s church. It also serves as the regimental church of the Royal Tank Regiment, symbolizing a unique military connection. Memorials within honor notable figures such as James Braidwood, founder of the world’s first municipal fire brigade, and surgeon Percivall Pott, reflecting the church’s role in commemorating local heritage. Its survival through war and fire and its architectural uniqueness make it a treasured monument in London’s ecclesiastical landscape.An Oasis of Peace Amidst the City Bustle
Despite its central London location, St Mary Aldermary offers a tranquil sanctuary with a serene atmosphere. The combination of its soaring Gothic architecture, intricate ceiling, and evocative stained glass creates a contemplative space for visitors and worshippers alike. Its presence on Bow Lane, a historic street, further enriches the experience, connecting visitors to centuries of London’s spiritual and architectural history.Modern Day and Visitor Experience
Today, St Mary Aldermary remains an active Anglican parish church with regular services and community events. Its accessibility and rich history attract visitors interested in architecture, history, and spirituality. The church’s website provides additional information and updates, and its location in the City makes it a convenient stop for those exploring London’s historic core. The church’s blend of medieval origins, Wren-era reconstruction, and Victorian restoration offers a layered narrative that fascinates history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Historic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
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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
- Cultural Heritage
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- 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
