St Stephen Walbrook: Wren’s Architectural Gem in the City of London
Discover the serene beauty and historic grandeur of St Stephen Walbrook, Wren’s architectural gem with its iconic dome and modern artistic altar.
St Stephen Walbrook is a historic Anglican church in the City of London, rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren between 1672 and 1679 after the Great Fire of London. Famous for its magnificent 19-meter-high dome, which served as a prototype for St Paul’s Cathedral, the church features a unique circular altar by Henry Moore and a tranquil, light-filled interior that blends 17th-century design with modern artistic touches.
A brief summary to St Stephen Walbrook
- 39 Walbrook, London, EC4N 8BN, GB
- +442076269000
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and to appreciate the tranquil atmosphere under the dome.
- Take time to admire Henry Moore’s circular marble altar and the colorful kneelers by Patrick Heron inside the church.
- Explore the history of the site, from the Roman Mithraic temple foundations to Wren’s innovative post-Great Fire design.
- Attend one of the church’s musical or cultural events to experience its vibrant community life.
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 or Northern Line to Bank station, approximately a 5 to 10-minute walk to St Stephen Walbrook. Frequent service runs throughout the day, with standard fares around £2.50–£4.00 depending on the time and ticket type.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Mansion House or Bank, including routes 11, 15, and 76. Buses run frequently during the day, with a journey time of 15–25 minutes from central locations. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for fares around £1.75.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London locations typically takes 10–20 minutes depending on traffic, with fares ranging from £8 to £20. Note that parking is extremely limited in the area.
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Walking
If you are nearby, walking is an excellent option. The church is accessible via paved city streets, but note that the area can be busy during business hours. Walking times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point.
St Stephen Walbrook 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 Stephen Walbrook
Origins and Early History on a Sacred Site
St Stephen Walbrook stands on a site rich with history dating back to Roman London. Originally, a Roman temple dedicated to Mithras occupied the west side of the Walbrook street, on the river’s east bank. Early Christian worship followed, with a church likely established by the 7th or 8th century. The medieval church was relocated to higher ground on the east side of Walbrook street in the 15th century, funded by Robert Chicheley. This larger church, consecrated in 1439, served the parish until its destruction in the Great Fire of London in 1666.Wren’s Masterpiece: Design and Construction
The present church was designed and constructed by Sir Christopher Wren between 1672 and 1679 as part of the post-fire rebuilding of London’s churches. Wren, who lived nearby, used St Stephen Walbrook as a testing ground for architectural innovations later applied at St Paul’s Cathedral. The church’s rectangular plan is crowned by a striking 19-meter-high dome supported uniquely on eight arches springing from twelve slender Corinthian columns, a design inspired by Byzantine architecture. The tower and spire, added between 1713 and 1715, frame the church’s exterior, which contrasts with the hidden grandeur of the dome.Interior Elegance and Artistic Highlights
Inside, the church impresses with its simplicity, clean lines, and exceptional use of natural light. The dome floods the interior with daylight, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. In 1987, the church was reconfigured around a central circular altar made of travertine marble by renowned sculptor Henry Moore, a modern focal point that harmonizes with Wren’s classic design. Surrounding the altar are vivid textile kneelers designed by artist Patrick Heron, adding color and texture to the predominantly white interior. The absence of a traditional nave-chancel division enhances the sense of openness and unity within the space.Survival and Restoration Through Turbulent Times
St Stephen Walbrook suffered significant damage during the Blitz in World War II when a bomb pierced the dome. The church was meticulously restored to Wren’s original designs after the war, preserving its architectural integrity and historical significance. Today, it stands as one of Wren’s most important works, praised by architectural historians and critics alike for its innovative design and spiritual ambiance.Community Role and Contemporary Mission
Beyond its architectural and historical importance, St Stephen Walbrook remains an active parish church deeply engaged with the City of London community. It offers spiritual support to a diverse congregation and hosts cultural and musical events, including partnerships with institutions like St Martin-in-the-Fields. The church embraces modern outreach initiatives such as early morning reflections for city workers and lunchtime services featuring sacred music, fostering a welcoming environment for people of all faiths or none.Architectural Significance and Visitor Experience
Nikolaus Pevsner ranked St Stephen Walbrook among England’s ten most important buildings, highlighting its role as a prototype for the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral. Visitors are often captivated by the church’s harmonious blend of historic architecture and contemporary art, the tranquil light-filled interior, and the unique central altar. The church’s location near the Mansion House and Bank stations places it at the heart of London’s financial district, offering a peaceful retreat amid the city bustle.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
113 Cannon St
0.1 km
A distinguished Grade II listed classical building in London’s financial district, showcasing early 20th-century architectural elegance.
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.
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.
Cornhill Fountain
0.3 km
A historic cast-iron water pump outside the Royal Exchange, symbolizing centuries of London's civic pride and public health innovation.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
0.4 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
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.
Lloyd's of London
0.5 km
A high-tech architectural masterpiece blending tradition and innovation in the heart of London’s financial district.
St Margaret Pattens Eastcheap
0.5 km
Medieval guild church with Wren's only 'true spire'—a 950-year sanctuary in the City's financial heart.
London Bridge
0.6 km
Historic London Bridge, a vital Thames crossing blending centuries of engineering with modern urban life.
The National Firefighters Memorial
0.6 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who served during the Blitz and beyond.
St. Paul's Cathedral
0.6 km
Wren's masterpiece: climb London's most iconic dome for breathtaking city views and centuries of history.
St Anne & St Agnes Church
0.6 km
Discover the serene St Anne & St Agnes Church, a historical Anglican gem in London, offering stunning architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
College of Arms
0.6 km
Discover the College of Arms: A Historic Icon of British Heraldry in the Heart of London, Showcasing Art and Tradition.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mansion House
0.0 km
Explore Mansion House, the grand Palladian residence of the Lord Mayor of London, rich with history, art, and ceremonial splendor.
London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE
0.0 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.
City of London
0.1 km
Discover the City of London’s unique fusion of ancient history and modern finance in the vibrant Square Mile.
1 Poultry
0.1 km
A striking postmodern landmark in London’s financial heart, blending bold design, rich history, and panoramic rooftop views.
Bloomberg Arcade
0.1 km
A vibrant blend of independent dining, public art, and Roman history in the heart of London’s Square Mile.
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.
St Mary Abchurch
0.2 km
Discover the tranquility of St Mary Abchurch, a historic church designed by Sir Christopher Wren in London's financial district, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Lombard St
0.2 km
Discover Lombard Street, London’s medieval banking hub where historic signs and financial legacy meet in the heart of the City.
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.
Change Alley
0.2 km
Historic passageway in London’s financial heart, where coffee houses sparked the birth of modern stock trading and commerce.
St Mary Aldermary
0.2 km
Discover St Mary Aldermary, a rare 17th-century Gothic Revival church by Wren’s office, blending medieval roots with stunning architecture in London’s City.
Bank of England Museum
0.2 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.
St Margaret Lothbury
0.3 km
Discover St Margaret Lothbury, a Baroque masterpiece by Christopher Wren nestled in London's financial heart, rich with history and exquisite woodwork.
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.
Threadneedle St & Royal Exchange
0.3 km
Historic crossroads where London’s financial legacy meets neoclassical grandeur and luxury shopping in the heart of the City.
Essential places to dine
Madison
0.4 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
14 Hills
0.6 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
La Dame de Pic London
0.9 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
George
0.9 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
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.
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
1.1 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
St. John
1.2 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
1.3 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
1.3 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Restaurant Story
1.4 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.5 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Lyle's
1.5 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Mercato Metropolitano
1.7 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
Ikoyi Restaurant
1.7 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
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
0.9 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
Traders Gate
0.9 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
0.9 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Tower of London Shop
0.9 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.
Bankside Arches Boutique
1.0 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Petticoat Lane Market
1.0 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
Smithfield Market
1.1 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
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.
Commercial St
1.3 km
Historic East London artery blending industrial heritage, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks in the heart of Spitalfields.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
1.3 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
Fashion St
1.3 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
1.3 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
1.4 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
Demon, Wise & Partners
0.4 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
The Bootlegger
0.5 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 Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
0.7 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
0.8 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
Moonshine Saloon
0.9 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 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.
Black Parrot
1.0 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Punch Tavern
1.0 km
Historic Victorian Gin Palace on Fleet Street, famed for its Punch magazine heritage and vast gin selection in the heart of London.
The Bell
1.1 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
Aviary
1.1 km
Elegant rooftop dining with botanical cocktails and panoramic London skyline views in the heart of Finsbury Square.
Flight Club Shoreditch
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant social darts scene with great food, cocktails, and fun at Flight Club Shoreditch in East London.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
0.3 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
1.5 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.
Trafik
1.7 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
Ministry of Sound
1.8 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
2.0 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.
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.
E1
2.0 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Carwash Nightclub
2.1 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
2.1 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
2.1 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
2.1 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Corsica Studios
2.2 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
2.3 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
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
