Temple Church: The Historic Heart of the Knights Templar in London
Explore London’s medieval Temple Church, a captivating Knights Templar legacy and historic site of the Magna Carta negotiations.
Temple Church in London is a remarkable 12th-century church built by the Knights Templar as their English headquarters. Known for its distinctive round nave inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, it played a pivotal role in medieval religious, political, and legal history, including the Magna Carta negotiations. Despite damage during WWII, it has been meticulously restored, offering visitors a serene and atmospheric glimpse into England’s crusading past and legal heritage.
A brief summary to Temple Church
- Temple, London, Temple, EC4Y 7BB, GB
- +442073538559
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM for the best access, as the church is closed on weekends and during certain services.
- Dress respectfully and maintain quiet during your visit, especially if services or choral performances are taking place.
- Take time to explore the surrounding Temple precinct, including gardens and historic legal buildings.
- Look for the medieval effigies of Knights Templar inside the round nave, including that of William Marshal.
- Consider joining a guided tour or attending an organ recital to deepen your understanding of the church’s history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
Take the London Underground to Temple station on the Circle or District lines; the church is a 5-minute walk from the station. Services run frequently, with travel times from central London around 10-20 minutes. No parking is available nearby.
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Train
Use City Thameslink railway station, an 8-minute walk from Temple Church. Trains connect from various London termini with journey times ranging from 10 to 30 minutes. The station has step-free access.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve Fleet Street and the Temple area, with stops within a 5-10 minute walk. Buses run regularly throughout the day, providing a convenient option without parking concerns.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking is an excellent way to reach Temple Church. The area features historic streets and gardens, with mostly flat terrain suitable for all fitness levels. Walking times vary depending on your starting point.
Temple Church 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 Temple Church
Origins and Architectural Significance of Temple Church
Temple Church was founded in the 12th century by the Knights Templar, a crusading monastic order established to protect pilgrims traveling to Jerusalem. Consecrated in 1185 by Heraclius, the Patriarch of Jerusalem, the church’s iconic round nave was designed to mirror the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, making it one of only four round churches in England. This architectural choice symbolizes the Templars’ spiritual mission and connection to the Holy Land. The chancel was added later in 1240, blending Romanesque and Gothic styles that give the church its unique historic character.The Knights Templar and Temple Church’s Role in Medieval England
Temple Church served as the English headquarters for the Knights Templar, who became powerful bankers and diplomats to English monarchs. The church and its surrounding precincts were central to England’s religious, political, and economic life during the medieval period. Notably, during the baronial crisis of 1213–1215, Temple Church was one of King John’s bases in London. It was here that key negotiations took place, leading to the Magna Carta’s creation. The church houses medieval effigies of knights, including William Marshal, a key figure in the Magna Carta’s mediation and enforcement.Survival, Damage, and Restoration Through Centuries
Temple Church remarkably survived the Great Fire of London in 1666 but underwent significant restoration in the 17th and 19th centuries. The most severe damage occurred during the Blitz in World War II when incendiary bombs set the roof ablaze, destroying much of the interior. Post-war restoration efforts meticulously rebuilt the church, preserving its medieval layout and many original features, including the famous round nave and the stone effigies of the Knights Templar. Today, it stands as a testament to resilience and historical preservation.Modern Use and Visitor Experience
Today, Temple Church functions as both a place of worship and a historic landmark open to visitors. It is a Royal Peculiar, meaning it belongs directly to the Crown rather than a diocese. Visitors can explore the church’s serene interior, admire its soaring ceilings, wood-carved altar, and learn about its fascinating history through informative displays. The church often hosts choral performances and organ recitals, enhancing its spiritual ambiance. Admission is modest, with concessions and free entry for children and legal professionals associated with the nearby Inns of Court.The Temple Precinct and Legal Heritage
The church is nestled within the Temple precinct, historically home to the Knights Templar and later to the Inner and Middle Temple Inns of Court, London’s legal societies. This area remains a vital legal district, linking the church’s medieval crusading heritage to the modern British legal system. Nearby gardens, courtyards, and historic streets enrich the visitor experience, providing a peaceful retreat amid central London’s bustle.Legacy and Cultural Impact
Temple Church’s rich history, architectural uniqueness, and connection to the Knights Templar and Magna Carta have made it a subject of fascination worldwide. It has inspired literature, including The Da Vinci Code, and continues to attract history enthusiasts, legal scholars, and spiritual visitors. The church’s blend of medieval mystery, legal tradition, and resilience through adversity encapsulates a significant chapter of England’s cultural heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Prince Henry's Room
0.1 km
Discover a rare Jacobean timber-framed treasure on Fleet Street, rich with history, ornate plasterwork, and tales from London's past.
Hare Pl
0.1 km
Discover Hare Place in Temple, London—a serene historic enclave steeped in centuries of legal tradition and architectural charm.
St Clement Danes Church
0.3 km
Historic London church and Central Church of the Royal Air Force, famed for its Wren architecture, RAF memorials, and iconic 'Oranges and Lemons' bells.
King's Reach commemoration memorial
0.3 km
Historic riverside memorial honoring King George V’s Silver Jubilee and the naming of London’s Thames stretch as 'King’s Reach'.
Bomber Harris Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn tribute to RAF Bomber Command’s leader and airmen, set within the historic St Clement Danes Church in London’s Temple district.
3 Gunpowder Square
0.3 km
A modern square in London’s financial district commemorating the dramatic history of the 1605 Gunpowder Plot and Guy Fawkes’ daring conspiracy.
Victoria Embankment
0.4 km
A historic riverside promenade in London blending Victorian engineering, scenic gardens, iconic monuments, and stunning Thames views.
Ludgate Circus
0.4 km
Historic Victorian junction where London's ancient Ludgate once stood, blending rich legend, architecture, and urban vitality.
The Old Watch House
0.4 km
A quaint early 18th-century parish watch house on London’s Strand, offering a rare glimpse into pre-Metropolitan Police community policing.
South Bank Community Area
0.6 km
A vibrant riverside cultural and historic district in central London, home to iconic landmarks, arts venues, and scenic Thames views.
Holborn Viaduct
0.6 km
A grand Victorian bridge spanning London's hidden Fleet valley, blending engineering innovation with ornate artistry and rich history.
Blackfriars Bridge
0.6 km
Historic and widest Thames crossing in London, blending Victorian engineering with medieval heritage and stunning river views.
Southbank Boardwalk
0.6 km
Experience the charm of London's Southbank Boardwalk, a serene escape with stunning river views, vibrant culture, and lush gardens.
Waterloo Bridge
0.7 km
Waterloo Bridge, London’s elegant Thames crossing, famed for its wartime women builders and breathtaking panoramic city views.
Strand
0.7 km
Historic London thoroughfare linking Westminster and the City, famed for grand hotels, cultural landmarks, and hidden historical treasures.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Old Bank of England
0.1 km
Discover the historic charm of The Old Bank of England, a premier pub in London, offering delicious food, local brews, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Middle Temple Venue Hire
0.1 km
A stunning Elizabethan hall at the heart of London’s legal heritage, blending history, architecture, and tradition in a serene riverside setting.
St Dunstan-in-the-West
0.1 km
Discover St Dunstan-in-the-West, a neo-Gothic marvel on Fleet Street with a rich history spanning over a millennium and unique octagonal design.
Temple Bar Memorial
0.1 km
Uncover the historical significance of Temple Bar Memorial, a captivating landmark in the heart of London, reflecting the city's rich heritage and culture.
The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple
0.2 km
Discover the historic heart of English law and royal heritage at the Honourable Society of the Middle Temple, home to stunning Elizabethan architecture and centuries of tradition.
Fleet St
0.2 km
Historic London street famed as the traditional home of British journalism, rich in literary heritage and hidden urban secrets.
Royal Courts of Justice
0.2 km
Explore the Royal Courts of Justice, a stunning Gothic architectural masterpiece in London, showcasing the city's rich legal history and vibrant culture.
The Maughan Library
0.2 km
Explore London's grand neo-Gothic Maughan Library, a historic fireproof archive turned vibrant university research hub at King's College London.
Two Temple Place
0.2 km
Discover Two Temple Place, a neo-Gothic Victorian mansion blending literary grandeur and architectural mastery on London’s iconic Victoria Embankment.
Monument Queen Victoria
0.2 km
Historic gateway memorial with majestic statues of Queen Victoria and Edward VII, crowned by the iconic City of London dragon.
Dr Johnson's House
0.2 km
Step into the historic home of Samuel Johnson and explore the birthplace of the English dictionary in the heart of London’s literary past.
Hodge The Cat Statue
0.3 km
Discover the charming bronze statue of Hodge, Samuel Johnson's beloved cat, perched on a dictionary in historic Gough Square, London.
John Wilkes statue
0.3 km
Explore the dynamic bronze statue of John Wilkes on Fetter Lane, celebrating a fiery 18th-century champion of freedom and London’s political heritage.
The Seven Stars
0.3 km
One of London’s oldest pubs, The Seven Stars blends centuries of history with a lively legal atmosphere and eclectic charm in Holborn.
St Bride's Church, Fleet Street
0.3 km
Discover the historic heart of Fleet Street, where journalism, printing, and London’s past converge in a stunning Wren-designed church.
Essential places to dine
Ikoyi Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.6 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Sea Containers Restaurant
0.6 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Sarastro
0.7 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
0.7 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Balthazar
0.8 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Wahaca Southbank
0.8 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Margot
0.8 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.9 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Chez Antoinette
0.9 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Punch & Judy
0.9 km
Historic Covent Garden pub blending classic British fare, lively balcony views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London.
Inamo Covent Garden
0.9 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
0.9 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
0.9 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Rules
0.9 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Twinings - The Strand
0.2 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
The Store X
0.3 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.6 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.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
0.6 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
j-me original design ltd
0.6 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Sugar And Style
0.6 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
not just a shop
0.7 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.7 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.8 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.9 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
The Moomin Shop London
0.9 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
Smithfield Market
0.9 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
Rokit Covent Garden
1.0 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
1.0 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
1.0 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black Parrot
0.4 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Lyaness
0.6 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
0.7 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 Understudy
0.7 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
Plume Wine Bar
0.7 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
0.7 km
Shake up your night in Covent Garden with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclasses in a historic spot pulsing with theater-district energy.
Be At One - Russell Street
0.7 km
Covent Garden’s vibrant cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, late-night parties, and unbeatable 2-for-1 happy hours in a stylish basement setting.
Beaufort Bar
0.8 km
Step into the Beaufort Bar’s jet-black and gold Art Deco glamour for exquisite cocktails, live sultry music, and a timeless London night out.
American Bar
0.8 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
0.8 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
Crusting Pipe
0.8 km
Covent Garden wine bar pouring Davy’s finest ports amid live music, British classics and cosy nooks—perfect for pre-theatre indulgence or market rendezvous.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
0.9 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
Princess Louise
0.9 km
Step into the Princess Louise, a stunning Victorian gin palace in Holborn, where opulent interiors and rich history blend in a timeless London pub experience.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
0.9 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.9 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Proud Late
0.7 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.
Carwash Nightclub
0.8 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.9 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.1 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Roxy
1.1 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
Heaven
1.1 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.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.2 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
London Best Night Clubs
1.2 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
The Ivy Club
1.2 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Cirque Du Soul
1.3 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.3 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
1.3 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.3 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.3 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
The Steel Yard
1.4 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
