St Paul’s Church Covent Garden: The Historic Actors’ Church

Architectural Genesis and Early History

St Paul’s Church was commissioned in 1631 by Francis Russell, the 4th Earl of Bedford, as part of the planned development of Covent Garden Piazza. The Earl engaged Inigo Jones, England’s foremost architect of the time, to design a church that was intentionally modest yet elegant—famously described as "not much better than a barn," to which Jones replied he would create "the handsomest barn in England." Completed in 1633 at a cost of approximately £4,886, it was the first entirely new Protestant church constructed in London since the Reformation. However, it was not consecrated until 1638 due to disputes over parish rights with the nearby St Martin-in-the-Fields church. The church’s design features a striking classical Tuscan portico facing east onto the piazza, intended as the main entrance, but ecclesiastical tradition required the altar to be at the east end, so the portico became a decorative facade and the entrance was moved to the west side through the churchyard.

Theatre Connections and Cultural Legacy

St Paul’s has been intimately linked with London’s theatrical world since the 17th century. The opening of the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane in 1663 cemented its role as the ‘Actors’ Church.’ Samuel Pepys recorded attending puppet shows under the portico, and the churchyard has been a gathering place for performers and audiences alike for centuries. Inside, hundreds of plaques commemorate actors, playwrights, directors, and other theatrical figures, including luminaries such as Sir Charlie Chaplin, Vivien Leigh, and Noël Coward. The church also hosts concerts and theatrical events, continuing its vibrant cultural tradition.

Trials, Restoration, and Resilience

By the late 18th century, St Paul’s had fallen into disrepair, prompting a major restoration led by architect Thomas Hardwick beginning in 1788. Tragically, a fire in 1795 caused extensive damage, destroying the roof and interior. Hardwick was again commissioned to restore the church, which reopened in 1798 largely faithful to Jones’s original design. Subsequent Victorian-era modifications, including the removal of side galleries and raising of the east end altar by William Butterfield, altered the interior but preserved its historic character. The churchyard, once a burial ground including the first victim of the Great Plague of London, was transformed into a garden after burials ceased in the 1850s.

Architectural Features and Atmosphere Today

Today, St Paul’s Church retains its distinctive classical facade with the grand Tuscan portico, a landmark in Covent Garden’s lively urban fabric. The interior balances historic reverence with practical adaptations, such as movable pews to accommodate performances. The church’s red-brick west facade contrasts with the elegant stone portico, welcoming visitors through a peaceful garden setting. Its role as an active parish church and cultural venue makes it a unique blend of spiritual sanctuary and theatrical heritage.

Notable Burials and Memorials

The churchyard and interior memorials honor a wide range of figures from London’s artistic and social history. Among those baptized here are the painter JMW Turner and composer Thomas Arne. The churchyard contains graves of notable individuals, including Margaret Porteous, the first recorded victim of the Great Plague in London. Memorial plaques inside the church pay tribute to generations of performers and contributors to the arts, making it a living museum of theatrical history.

Community Role and Visitor Experience

St Paul’s continues to serve as a vibrant community hub in central London. It hosts regular worship services, concerts, and theatrical events, maintaining its centuries-old connection to the performing arts. Visitors can explore the historic churchyard garden, admire the architecture, and reflect on the rich tapestry of stories embodied in its walls. The church’s welcoming atmosphere and central location make it a must-visit for those interested in London’s cultural and architectural heritage.