St James's Church, Piccadilly
A Sir Christopher Wren masterpiece in the heart of London’s West End, where history, art and community meet in a peaceful garden church.
Standing at the heart of London’s West End since 1684, St James's Church, Piccadilly is a masterpiece by Sir Christopher Wren, renowned for its elegant architecture, historic significance, and vibrant community life. Damaged in the Blitz, it was meticulously restored and now serves as both a place of worship and a cultural hub. The church is famed for its Grinling Gibbons reredos, its association with artists like William Blake and Mary Beale, and its peaceful garden oasis amid the bustle of Piccadilly. Services, concerts, art exhibitions, and courtyard markets make it a living part of London’s spiritual and artistic landscape.
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 break from the bustle of Piccadilly; it’s a lovely spot to sit and reflect.
- Check the church’s website for upcoming concerts and exhibitions, which often feature high-quality music and art in a historic setting.
- Look closely at the Grinling Gibbons reredos behind the altar – it’s considered one of his finest works and a highlight of the interior.
- Attend a service or quiet time if you’re interested in experiencing the church’s inclusive and thoughtful community atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
From Piccadilly Circus Underground station, follow signs for Regent Street / Piccadilly and walk along Piccadilly for about 5 minutes; the church is on the north side, just past the junction with Regent Street.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve Piccadilly Circus and stop near the church; the walk from the bus stop to the church is short and on level pavement, suitable for all visitors.
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Walking
From central London landmarks like Trafalgar Square or Leicester Square, allow 10–15 minutes on foot along well‑lit, busy streets; the route is straightforward and safe, passing through the heart of the West End.
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Taxi / Ride‑hailing
A taxi or ride‑hailing drop‑off directly at 197 Piccadilly is convenient; the church entrance is clearly visible from the kerb, with level access from the pavement.
St James's Piccadilly location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St James's Piccadilly
A Wren Masterpiece in the West End
St James's Church, Piccadilly, consecrated in 1684, is one of Sir Christopher Wren’s most celebrated London churches. Designed in the late 17th century for a newly fashionable parish carved out of St Martin-in-the-Fields, it reflects Wren’s genius for harmonious proportion and light-filled interiors. The church was built largely with funds from Henry Jermyn, Earl of St Albans, on land granted by Charles II, and its original red brick and Portland stone exterior still define its presence on Piccadilly. Though the steeple and spire were added later and famously leaned before being rebuilt, the current tower stands as a familiar landmark in the West End skyline.Art, Music and Literary Legacy
The interior is a gallery of British art and craftsmanship. The magnificent reredos behind the altar is the work of Grinling Gibbons, widely regarded as one of his finest carvings. The church’s organ, originally from the Roman Catholic Chapel Royal at Whitehall, was installed in 1691 and has been a focal point for sacred music ever since, surviving wartime damage and later restoration. St James’s has long attracted artists and writers: William Blake was baptised here in 1757, Mary Beale is buried in the churchyard, and Maria Angelica Kauffman was married here in 1764. Caricaturist James Gillray and poet Robert Graves are also commemorated within its walls.War, Ruin and Renewal
In October 1940, during the London Blitz, a bomb severely damaged the church, destroying much of the roof and interior. The organ was badly damaged, though its historic case had been dismantled and stored safely before the attack. The post-war restoration, led by Professor A.E. Richardson and completed in 1954, carefully rebuilt the church while preserving its essential character. The rededication in 1954 marked not just a physical revival but a renewed commitment to serving the community, a role that continues today with a diverse and inclusive congregation.A Garden and Courtyard in the City
To the west of the church lies a tranquil garden, a rare green space in central London that offers a quiet retreat from the surrounding traffic and commerce. The church’s courtyard and rectory form a cohesive ensemble at the heart of the West End, hosting regular markets, exhibitions, and community events. These spaces extend the church’s role beyond worship into the realms of art, conversation, and civic life, making St James’s a true community hub in the heart of London.Living Heritage and Modern Ministry
Today, St James’s Piccadilly is both a Grade I listed building and a living parish church. It maintains a strong tradition of music and the arts, with regular concerts, recitals, and collaborations with artists and performers. The church is known for its progressive and inclusive ethos, welcoming people of all faiths and none. Whether attending a service, exploring the historic building, enjoying the garden, or browsing a courtyard market, visitors encounter a place where centuries of history meet contemporary London life in a spirit of openness and creativity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Beau Brummell Statue
0.2 km
The dandy who revolutionised menswear and defined Regency elegance in bronze.
Burlington House
0.2 km
A grand 17th-century mansion on Piccadilly, now home to the Royal Academy of Arts and Britain’s leading learned societies, blending Palladian elegance with centuries of art and science.
Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
0.2 km
Iconic London landmark honoring Victorian philanthropy with the world’s first aluminium statue, set amidst Piccadilly Circus’s vibrant theatre district.
225 Piccadilly Circus
0.2 km
At the luminous heart of London’s West End, 225 Piccadilly Circus dazzles with history, iconic lights, and vibrant urban energy.
Piccadilly Circus
0.2 km
Piccadilly Circus pulses with iconic neon lights, historic monuments, and vibrant street life at the heart of London’s West End.
St James's Square
0.3 km
London’s oldest garden square, where Georgian elegance meets centuries of power, politics, and high society in the heart of Westminster.
3 Savile Row
0.3 km
Historic Georgian townhouse in London, famed as The Beatles’ Apple Corps HQ and site of their legendary 1969 rooftop concert.
Guards Crimean War Memorial
0.3 km
A poignant bronze tribute in central London honoring the valor and sacrifice of ordinary soldiers in the Crimean War.
Pickering Pl
0.3 km
Discover Pickering Place, London's smallest square, a hidden Georgian courtyard steeped in duels, diplomacy, and timeless charm.
Ziggy Stardust album cover
0.3 km
Step into the legendary London street where David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust persona was born on an iconic 1972 album cover.
Republic of Texas Plaque
0.3 km
A hidden brass plaque marking where the Republic of Texas once sought recognition from the British Crown.
Sir Keith Park statue
0.4 km
Discover the Sir Keith Park Statue in London, an inspiring tribute to a World War II hero amidst the beauty of Waterloo Place.
Charles De Gaulle Statue
0.4 km
Explore the Charles De Gaulle Statue in London, a monument celebrating Franco-British relations and the legacy of a legendary leader amidst serene gardens.
Equestrian statue of Edward Ⅶ
0.4 km
Majestic bronze tribute to King Edward VII in the heart of London’s historic Waterloo Place, blending regal artistry with imperial heritage.
Savile Row
0.4 km
Explore the elegance of Savile Row, London's renowned street for bespoke tailoring and luxury fashion, where craftsmanship meets tradition.
Unmissable attractions to see
Jermyn St
0.0 km
Discover Jermyn Street, London’s iconic destination for timeless menswear, bespoke tailoring, and refined British craftsmanship in a historic setting.
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
0.0 km
Discover the rich heritage of British cheese at Paxton & Whitfield, London's historic cheese shop on Jermyn Street, featuring exceptional selections and gourmet delights.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
0.0 km
Experience authentic British pub culture at The Red Lion in Mayfair, where history meets hospitality in the heart of London.
Prestat Chocolates
0.1 km
Discover London’s oldest royal chocolate shop, where century-old truffle traditions meet theatrical elegance in Piccadilly’s charming Princes Arcade.
Princes Arcade
0.1 km
Discover Princes Arcade, a historic London shopping passage blending timeless craftsmanship with modern menswear in the heart of Piccadilly.
Hatchards - Piccadilly
0.1 km
Explore Hatchards, London's oldest bookshop since 1797, a historic literary haven with royal warrants and timeless charm on Piccadilly.
Fortnum & Mason
0.1 km
Three centuries of British luxury, tradition, and culinary excellence on Piccadilly
White Cube Mason's Yard
0.1 km
Premier contemporary art gallery in St James's, free admission, architectural landmark housing international exhibitions.
Masons Yard
0.1 km
Discover Mason's Yard, a historic London square blending rich artistic heritage with cutting-edge contemporary galleries in the heart of St James's.
Piccadilly Arcade
0.2 km
Step into Piccadilly Arcade, a refined Edwardian shopping haven blending heritage tailoring, unique boutiques, and timeless London charm.
Burlington Arcade
0.2 km
Step into Burlington Arcade, a historic 1819 luxury shopping gallery in London, where Regency charm meets exclusive boutiques and timeless traditions.
Piccadilly & Piccadilly Circus
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant crossroads of London’s West End where iconic lights, historic landmarks, and lively entertainment converge.
Lillywhites
0.2 km
London's premier sporting goods store on Regent Street, offering top brands and expert gear for every athlete and sports enthusiast.
The Criterion Theatre
0.2 km
Discover the intimate charm and rich history of London’s underground Victorian gem, the Criterion Theatre at Piccadilly Circus.
Christie's London
0.2 km
Christie's London, at 8 King Street, is a historic and prestigious auction house renowned for its world-class art and luxury sales since 1766.
Essential places to dine
Quaglino's
0.2 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
Golden Lion
0.3 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Kricket Soho
0.3 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
Mele e Pere
0.3 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Wild Honey St James
0.4 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
NOPI
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.4 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
Bantof
0.4 km
Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Blacklock Soho
0.4 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
Great British Restaurant
0.4 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Evelyn's Table
0.4 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Bob Bob Ricard Soho
0.4 km
Experience glamorous British & French dining in Soho with iconic booths and a unique ‘Press for Champagne’ button at every table.
Kingly Court
0.5 km
Discover a world of flavors in London’s vibrant Kingly Court, where global cuisine meets Soho’s lively spirit.
Andrew Edmunds Restaurant
0.5 km
A romantic Soho townhouse serving refined Franco-Mediterranean dishes with an acclaimed wine list in an intimate, candlelit setting.
sketch
0.6 km
An iconic Mayfair venue blending avant-garde art, Michelin-starred dining, and whimsical design for an unforgettable London experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Floris London
0.1 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
0.2 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
John Lobb St. James
0.3 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
0.4 km
Discover avant-garde menswear from global designers in Soho's vibrant heart – unique finds for the bold dresser at Closet Case.
Machine-A
0.4 km
Small but influential Soho boutique showcasing curated avant‑garde and emerging fashion with gallery‑like presentation.
M&M'S London
0.5 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
0.5 km
Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
Kingly Ct
0.5 km
A vibrant three-storey courtyard in Soho offering eclectic global dining and unique shops in a lively, relaxed atmosphere.
Cool Britania
0.5 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
JW Anderson London Soho
0.5 km
Soho's avant-garde flagship: minimalist Shaker-inspired space brimming with gender-fluid luxury fashion, artisanal homewares, and exclusive collaborations.
Hamleys
0.5 km
Seven floors of toy wonder in London's most iconic toy shop since 1760.
Glassworks London - Soho
0.5 km
Discover limited-edition London fashion at Glassworks Soho: quality designs, weekly drops, and timeless style on vibrant Berwick Street.
Carnaby St
0.5 km
London's iconic fashion hub where 1960s counterculture meets contemporary style across 14 vibrant streets.
Bond St
0.5 km
London's most exclusive luxury shopping street, where three centuries of elegance meet contemporary high fashion.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Thin White Duke
0.4 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
Duke of Argyll
0.4 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
Disrepute - Soho
0.4 km
Descend into Soho's glamorous underworld at Disrepute, where 1960s scandal meets masterful cocktails in velvet-clad vaults—Soho's seductive late-night escape.
Cahoots London
0.4 km
Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.5 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
Duke Of Wellington
0.5 km
A lively Soho pub blending traditional British charm with modern nightlife energy on Wardour Street.
Village Soho
0.5 km
A lively, inclusive gay bar in Soho with energetic dance floors, go-go dancers, karaoke nights, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ atmosphere.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.5 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.5 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
The Admiral Duncan - Soho
0.6 km
Historic Soho gay pub and resilient LGBTQ+ landmark, symbolizing community strength and vibrant nightlife since the 1830s.
The Blind Pig at Social Eating House
0.6 km
Soho's hidden speakeasy gem: storybook cocktails and Michelin bites in Prohibition-style elegance.
Below
0.6 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Ku Bar
0.6 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Basement Sate
0.6 km
Discover Soho’s chic basement bar where decadent desserts meet expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting.
Bar Soho
0.7 km
A theatrical two‑floor cocktail bar on Old Compton Street — daytime drinks and late‑night DJs for dancing, private hire and people‑watching in the heart of Soho.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Scotch of St James
0.1 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
The Cuckoo Club
0.1 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
Tabu London
0.3 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
Luxe Club
0.3 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.4 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
0.4 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.5 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
Sophisticats Soho
0.5 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
The Box Soho
0.5 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
The Penthouse London
0.5 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
TSQ Club
0.5 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Sunset night club
0.6 km
Dive into Soho's electric nightlife at Sunset Night Club, where thumping beats, craft cocktails, and dawn-chasing energy define unforgettable nights in London's vibrant core.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.6 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.
St Moritz Club
0.7 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
Club49Soho
0.7 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural
- Historic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
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
