St Olave's Church, Hart Street: A Medieval Sanctuary in the Heart of London
Discover St Olave's Church, a medieval gem in London’s City, rich with Viking history, Samuel Pepys’ legacy, and evocative medieval charm.
St Olave's Church on Hart Street is a rare medieval survivor in the City of London, with origins dating back to the Saxon era. Renowned for its connection to King Olaf II of Norway and diarist Samuel Pepys, this church escaped the Great Fire of 1666 but was heavily damaged in World War II and later restored. Its historic crypt, 15th-century Perpendicular Gothic architecture, and evocative churchyard with a skull-adorned gate offer a profound glimpse into London's layered past.
A brief summary to St Olave's Church, Hart Street
- 8 Hart St, London, EC3R 7NA, GB
- +442074884318
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-1 pm
Local tips
- Visit the 13th-century crypt to experience the oldest part of the church and its atmospheric medieval architecture.
- Look for the skull-adorned churchyard gate with its Latin inscription, a striking symbol of mortality and faith.
- Explore the memorial bust of Samuel Pepys’ wife Elizabeth inside the church, positioned so Pepys could see it from his pew.
- Plan your visit during open hours Tuesday to Thursday, 10:30 AM to 5 PM, or Sunday 10 AM to 1 PM, as the church is closed on Fridays and Saturdays.
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 District or Circle line to Tower Hill station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk to St Olave's Church. The station is well-served with frequent trains; fares range from £2.50 to £6 depending on the ticket type and time.
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Bus
Bus routes 15, 42, and 100 stop near Tower Hill or Monument stations, both within a 10-15 minute walk. Buses run every 10-15 minutes during the day, with a single fare of £1.75 using an Oyster or contactless card.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London takes about 15-25 minutes depending on traffic, with fares typically between £10 and £20. Note that traffic congestion charges may apply in the City.
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Walking
If you are nearby, walking is a pleasant option. The church is located in a pedestrian-friendly area with historic streets. Expect a 10-20 minute walk from Monument or Tower Hill stations over mostly flat terrain.
St Olave's Church, Hart Street 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 Olave's Church, Hart Street
Ancient Origins and Viking Legacy
St Olave's Church stands on a site steeped in history, believed to have been a place of worship since Saxon times. Legend holds that King Olaf II of Norway, later canonized as St Olaf, rallied troops here in 1014 during the Battle of London Bridge to aid King Æthelred the Unready against Danish invaders. The earliest physical remnants include a late 12th-century stone vaulted crypt and a 13th-century vestry door, hinting at continuous religious presence through centuries of upheaval.Medieval Rebuilding and Architectural Significance
The present church largely dates from around 1450, rebuilt in the Perpendicular Gothic style by wealthy local wool merchants Richard and Robert Cely. Characteristic large windows, soaring interior arches, and surviving medieval brasses reflect this prosperous era. Additions such as the 17th-century churchyard gate, adorned with skull motifs and the Latin phrase "Christus Vivere Mors mihi lucrum" (Christ lives, Death is my reward), contribute a macabre yet poignant atmosphere evocative of London's turbulent history.Samuel Pepys and Naval Connections
St Olave's was the parish church of Samuel Pepys, the famed 17th-century diarist and naval administrator. Pepys had a special gallery built in 1660 with an external stairway connecting to the nearby Navy Office, allowing him dry access to his pew. His wife Elizabeth’s memorial bust faces the pew where he sat, symbolizing their enduring bond. The church’s proximity to the Royal Navy’s administrative heart made it a spiritual hub for naval officers and officials.Survival Through Catastrophe and Restoration
Remarkably, St Olave's survived the Great Fire of London in 1666, thanks to firebreaks created by William Penn Sr., father of Pennsylvania’s founder. However, the church was severely damaged by bombing during the Second World War. A meticulous restoration between 1948 and 1954 preserved its intimate medieval character while incorporating remnants of the original structure. The church today retains an atmosphere both antique and welcoming.Historic Churchyard and Cultural Resonance
The enclosed churchyard, accessible via the striking skull-adorned gate, holds graves of notable figures including Mary Ramsay, associated with the 1665 plague, and the inspiration for the Mother Goose nursery rhymes. The raised ground level at the entrance hints at centuries of burials beneath. Literary figures like Charles Dickens admired the church’s grim yet fascinating ambiance, dubbing it "St Ghastly Grim."Visiting Experience and Architectural Highlights
Visitors can explore the crypt, descend discreet stairs to the medieval heart of the church, and admire the plastered ceiling with its central angel motif. The church’s modest size and historic charm make it feel like a country church transplanted into the bustling City. Its layered history, from Viking battles to plague and war, is palpable in every stone and memorial.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tower Hill Memorial
0.2 km
Honouring 35,000 merchant seafarers with no grave but the sea—a dual memorial to two world wars.
1 Tower Hl Ter
0.2 km
Historic urban landmark near Tower of London, blending centuries of British heritage with maritime memorials and modern city life.
London Wall
0.3 km
Explore London Wall, an ancient Roman landmark revealing the rich history of Londinium amidst the modern cityscape of London.
Custom House
0.3 km
Historic Custom House on London’s Thames waterfront, a grand 19th-century customs hub echoing centuries of maritime trade and empire.
Lloyd's of London
0.3 km
A high-tech architectural masterpiece blending tradition and innovation in the heart of London’s financial district.
30 Saint Mary Axe - Swiss Re
0.4 km
Discover The Gherkin, London’s pioneering eco-friendly skyscraper with its iconic spiraling glass façade and panoramic city views.
30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin)
0.4 km
A striking, sustainable skyscraper in London’s financial heart, blending innovative design with panoramic city views and historic roots.
Wakefield Tower
0.4 km
Medieval royal tower steeped in 13th-century splendor and tragic history within the Tower of London.
Roman Wall of Londinium
0.4 km
Explore the towering Roman Wall at Tower Hill, a striking relic that shaped London’s ancient cityscape and echoes 2,000 years of history.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
0.5 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
Travelodge London Central Liverpool Street
0.5 km
Affordable comfort in the heart of East London, steps from Liverpool Street station and vibrant city attractions.
Cornhill Fountain
0.6 km
A historic cast-iron water pump outside the Royal Exchange, symbolizing centuries of London's civic pride and public health innovation.
St Mary Abchurch
0.6 km
Wren's intimate masterpiece crowned by a celestial dome and adorned with Grinling Gibbons' finest carvings.
IMPRINT Church London: St Mary Woolnoth
0.6 km
Explore the historic IMPRINT Church London: St Mary Woolnoth, a stunning Anglican church offering a blend of spirituality, architecture, and community in the heart of London.
Statue of James Henry Greathead
0.6 km
Discover the statue honoring James Henry Greathead, the engineer whose invention shaped London's iconic Underground tunnels.
Unmissable attractions to see
Trinity Square
0.1 km
A dignified London square where imperial architecture, ancient walls, and solemn memorials meet beside the Tower of London.
Trinity House
0.2 km
Discover the rich maritime heritage at Trinity House, London's historic center for navigation and seamanship, featuring stunning architecture and captivating exhibits.
All Hallows by the Tower
0.2 km
Discover London's oldest church, a historic gem beside the Tower, where Roman, Saxon, and medieval layers tell tales of resilience and heritage.
The Garden at 120
0.2 km
Discover London’s largest free rooftop garden with serene greenery and iconic 360° city views atop 120 Fenchurch Street.
Trinity Square Gardens
0.2 km
A quiet City garden on the site of Tower Hill’s scaffold, home to the Tower Hill Memorial and framed by historic architecture and views of the Tower of London.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
0.2 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill offering seasonal classics and craft ales in a setting steeped in London's dramatic past.
8-12 Tower Hill
0.2 km
Historic Tower Hill in London, where ancient walls meet iconic landmarks and vibrant riverside life unfolds.
Gunpowder Plot: The Immersive Experience
0.2 km
Immerse yourself in the thrilling 1605 Gunpowder Plot with live actors, authentic vaults, and cutting-edge VR at Tower Hill Vaults.
Sundial at the Tower Hill
0.2 km
A captivating bronze sundial near Tower Hill station, telling London’s 2,000-year history through intricate carvings and offering stunning views of the Tower of London.
St Margaret Pattens Eastcheap
0.2 km
Explore the historic St Margaret Pattens in London, a serene church brimming with stunning architecture and rich history, perfect for a peaceful visit.
St Dunstan in the East Church Garden
0.2 km
A peaceful historic garden oasis in the heart of London’s financial district, blending Gothic ruins with lush greenery and tranquil charm.
Tower of London Ice Rink
0.3 km
Skate in the historic moat of London’s iconic Tower of London for a magical winter experience surrounded by medieval walls and festive cheer.
Tower Hill
0.3 km
Historic Tower Hill offers a captivating blend of medieval heritage, iconic landmarks, and vibrant riverside charm in the heart of London.
20 Fenchurch St
0.3 km
Iconic London skyscraper known as the Walkie Talkie, featuring a stunning three-floor Sky Garden with panoramic city views and rooftop dining.
Billingsgate Roman House & Baths
0.3 km
Explore one of London’s best-preserved Roman private homes and bathhouses, revealing ancient luxury beneath the modern city streets.
Essential places to dine
La Dame de Pic London
0.1 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
14 Hills
0.2 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
0.8 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
0.9 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
George
1.1 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
Madison
1.1 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Lyle's
1.4 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Nomadic community
1.5 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
The Clove Club
1.8 km
Two Michelin stars meet innovative modern British cuisine in a historic Shoreditch Town Hall setting with a unique urban garden.
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.
St. John
1.9 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Mercato Metropolitano
1.9 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
Sea Containers Restaurant
1.9 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Traders Gate
0.2 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
0.3 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Middlesex Textiles
0.6 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
The Royal Exchange
0.6 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Petticoat Lane Market
0.6 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
Hay's Galleria
0.6 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
0.8 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
1 Poultry
0.8 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
Fashion St
0.9 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
Commercial St
1.0 km
Historic East London artery blending industrial heritage, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks in the heart of Spitalfields.
Spitalfields Market
1.0 km
Historic yet vibrant, Spitalfields Market blends East London’s rich heritage with a lively mix of food, art, and shopping all week long.
Borough Yards
1.0 km
Discover Borough Yards, a lively London district blending historic railway arches with cutting-edge shopping, dining, and culture near Borough Market.
Sclater Street Market
1.1 km
Vintage treasures and eclectic finds in the heart of Shoreditch's bohemian marketplace.
One New Change
1.2 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
DPUS Designer Outlet
1.2 km
Authentic designer fashion outlet in Shoreditch’s historic Old Truman Brewery, blending luxury style with urban culture and unbeatable prices.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.4 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
0.5 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
The Bell
0.6 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
Demon, Wise & Partners
0.7 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
Discount Suit Company
0.7 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
The Astronomer, EC1
0.8 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
Dirty Dicks
0.8 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
0.8 km
Discover Shoreditch’s secret speakeasy behind a fridge door, where quirky vintage charm meets expertly crafted cocktails and lively 80s beats.
Nine Lives
0.9 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
0.9 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
Aviary
1.3 km
Elegant rooftop dining with botanical cocktails and panoramic London skyline views in the heart of Finsbury Square.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Old Street
1.3 km
A vibrant and stylish cocktail bar in London’s Old Street area, known for creative drinks and a lively urban atmosphere.
The Old School Yard
1.3 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
Flight Club Shoreditch
1.3 km
Experience the vibrant social darts scene with great food, cocktails, and fun at Flight Club Shoreditch in East London.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
0.8 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
E1
1.3 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
The Hoxton Pony
1.6 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
XOYO LONDON
1.7 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Trafik
1.8 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable 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.
Ministry of Sound
2.0 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
London Best Night Clubs
2.1 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Corsica Studios
2.3 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
Proud Late
2.7 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.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
2.7 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
2.7 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
2.7 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Carwash Nightclub
2.9 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Club 701
3.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Historic
- Unique
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
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
- Myth & Legends
- 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
