St James's Piccadilly
A historic sanctuary in the heart of London, where art, history, and community converge in the shadow of Piccadilly.
St James's Piccadilly is a historic Anglican church designed by Sir Christopher Wren, standing as a serene oasis in the heart of London's bustling West End. Consecrated in 1684, the church has witnessed centuries of change, from royal baptisms to wartime destruction and restoration. Its tranquil garden, Grinling Gibbons reredos, and connections to figures like William Blake and Ottobah Cugoano make it a unique cultural landmark.
A brief summary to St James's Piccadilly
- 197 Piccadilly, London, W1J 9LL, GB
- +442077344511
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the church garden for a peaceful retreat from the city bustle.
- Look for the Grinling Gibbons reredos and the memorial tablets to notable artists and writers.
- Check the church’s website for special events and markets in the courtyard.
- Take a moment to reflect on the church’s history and its connections to figures like William Blake and Mary Beale.
- Attend a service or simply enjoy the atmosphere of this inclusive and vibrant community space.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
Take the Piccadilly Line to Piccadilly Circus Station, then walk approximately 5 minutes to the church. The route is well-signposted and accessible for all visitors.
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Bus
Several bus routes, including the 3, 6, 9, 12, 13, 15, 23, 88, 94, 139, and 159, stop near Piccadilly Circus. From there, it is a short walk to the church.
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Walking
From central London landmarks like Trafalgar Square or Leicester Square, it takes about 10-15 minutes to walk to St James's Piccadilly, passing through the vibrant streets of the West End.
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Taxi
A taxi from central London will take approximately 10 minutes, depending on traffic. The church is easily accessible by car, with nearby drop-off points.
St James's Piccadilly location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St James's Piccadilly
Architectural Legacy and Historical Roots
St James's Piccadilly was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and consecrated in 1684, making it one of the few churches he built on a completely new site. The land was originally granted by King Charles II and developed by Henry Jermyn, Earl of St Albans, to meet the growing demand for noble residences in the area. The church’s architecture reflects Wren’s signature style, with a distinctive spire that has weathered centuries of change, including a major reconstruction after being damaged in the Blitz of 1940. The reredos above the altar, carved by Grinling Gibbons, is considered one of his finest works and remains a centerpiece of the interior.Artistic and Literary Connections
The church has long been a gathering place for artists, writers, and thinkers. William Blake, the visionary poet and artist, was baptised here in 1757, and his legacy is honored within the church. Mary Beale, one of England’s first professional female painters, is buried here, and the Dutch marine artists William van de Velde the Elder and Younger are commemorated with memorial tablets. The church also played a role in the lives of literary figures such as Robert Graves, who was married here, and caricaturist James Gillray, whose memory is preserved in a stone tablet.Community and Cultural Significance
St James's Piccadilly has always been more than a place of worship; it is a vibrant community hub. The church’s garden offers a peaceful retreat from the surrounding city, and the courtyard hosts markets and events that draw locals and visitors alike. The congregation is known for its inclusivity and commitment to creative expression, reflecting the diverse spirit of London’s West End. The church’s history is intertwined with the development of the surrounding district, from its origins as open countryside to its current status as a fashionable and culturally rich neighborhood.Wartime Impact and Restoration
The church suffered severe damage during the bombing of October 1940, but its restoration was a testament to the resilience of the community. The organ, which had been moved from the Roman Catholic Chapel of the Queen’s House, was rebuilt and restored to its former glory by 1954. The church’s rededication that year marked a new chapter in its history, blending its historic roots with a renewed sense of purpose and community engagement.Modern-Day Experience
Today, St James's Piccadilly welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds, offering a space for reflection, worship, and cultural exploration. The church’s architecture, art, and history create a rich tapestry that invites visitors to connect with the past while engaging with the present. Whether attending a service, exploring the garden, or simply taking in the atmosphere, visitors are sure to find a sense of calm and inspiration in this historic landmark.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St James's Piccadilly
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Beau Brummell Statue
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Piccadilly & Piccadilly Circus
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Burlington House
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Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
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225 Piccadilly Circus
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Piccadilly Circus
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St James's Square
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3 Savile Row
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Pall Mall
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Pall Mall, a historic London street famed for royal heritage, pioneering gas lighting, and exclusive gentlemen’s clubs near St James’s Palace.
Guards Crimean War Memorial
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Pickering Pl
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Ziggy Stardust album cover
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Republic of Texas Plaque
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Waterloo Pl
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Red Lion, Mayfair
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Prestat Chocolates
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Hatchards - Piccadilly
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White Cube Mason's Yard
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Masons Yard
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The Criterion Theatre
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Christie's London
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Piccadilly Theatre
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Wonderville
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The London Pavillion
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Comedy Carnival Leicester Square
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Picturehouse Central
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Golden Square
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Tiger Tiger London
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Ham Yard Hotel
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Essential places to dine
Quaglino's
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Golden Lion
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Kricket Soho
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Mele e Pere
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Wild Honey St James
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NOPI
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Francatelli
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Seven Park Place by William Drabble
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Bantof
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Blacklock Soho
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Great British Restaurant
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Evelyn's Table
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Bob Bob Ricard Soho
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Kingly Court
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Andrew Edmunds Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Machine-A
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M&M'S London
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Cool Britania
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JW Anderson London Soho
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Glassworks London - Soho
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La Boutik
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Canvas Collection
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Pop Up 38
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Liberty London
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Unique Britain
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Crest of London Ltd
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Thin White Duke
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Duke of Argyll
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Disrepute - Cocktail Bar in Soho
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Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
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The Blind Pig at Social Eating House
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Below
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Basement Sate
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The Blind Pig at Mary's est. 2024
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Bar Soho
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The Black Book
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Henson's Bar and Social
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural
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
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Photowalk
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
