St. Paul's Cathedral
Wren's masterpiece: climb London's most iconic dome for breathtaking city views and centuries of history.
Sir Christopher Wren's masterpiece dominates the London skyline with its iconic 111-metre dome. This Baroque cathedral, rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1666, stands as a symbol of London's resilience and architectural brilliance. Visitors can explore the ornate interior, climb to the Golden Gallery for panoramic city views, or descend into the historic crypt. With multimedia guides, optional tours, and a working chapel hosting daily services, St. Paul's offers a profound blend of spiritual significance and architectural wonder.
A brief summary to St. Paul's Cathedral
- St. Paul's Churchyard, London, EC4M 8AD, GB
- +442072468350
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive early at 8:30 am opening for the best photography light and fewer crowds, particularly if you plan to climb the galleries. The morning hours offer superior lighting for interior photography.
- Don't miss the American Chapel situated behind the high altar—it's easily overlooked but holds significant historical importance and offers a quieter space for reflection.
- If climbing the 528 steps to the Golden Gallery, wear comfortable shoes and allow extra time. The views are exceptional, but the ascent is physically demanding and not suitable for those with claustrophobia.
- Book private guide tours or Triforium Tours at least a month in advance by contacting the Sales and Admissions team for a more in-depth experience beyond standard admission.
- Attend a free service on Sunday or weekday evensong to experience the cathedral in its primary role as a working place of worship, with the added benefit of hearing the cathedral's acoustics during choral singing.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Underground (Tube)
St. Paul's station on the Central Line is approximately a 3-minute walk from the cathedral entrance. Alternatively, Mansion House or Blackfriars stations (both District and Circle lines) are about a 5-minute walk away. The tube is the fastest and most reliable option, with frequent service throughout the day. No advance booking required; simply purchase a contactless or Oyster card fare.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the area around St. Paul's Cathedral, including routes 4, 8, 11, 15, 23, 25, and 26. Journey times vary depending on traffic and your starting point, typically ranging from 15 to 45 minutes from central London locations. Buses are frequent during daytime hours. Use contactless payment or an Oyster card for fares.
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Walking
St. Paul's is centrally located in the City of London and accessible on foot from many nearby attractions. From Tower of London, allow approximately 15–20 minutes walking along the Thames Path or through the City streets. From London Bridge, approximately 10–15 minutes. The cathedral's prominent dome serves as a useful navigation landmark.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Taxis and ride-hailing services (Uber, Bolt) can deliver you directly to St. Paul's Churchyard. Journey times depend on traffic conditions; expect 15–30 minutes from most central London locations during off-peak hours, longer during rush hours (7–10 am and 5–7 pm). Fares typically range from £8 to £20 depending on origin and traffic.
St. Paul's Cathedral location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about St. Paul's Cathedral
A Monument Rising from Fire and History
St. Paul's Cathedral stands as one of London's most recognisable and revered landmarks, its magnificent dome rising 111 metres above the City of London. The current structure was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and completed in 1710, following the devastating Great Fire of London in 1666 that destroyed the medieval cathedral that had occupied this site for centuries. For over three centuries, St. Paul's has dominated the London skyline, and by law, its protected views ensure that the dome remains visible from key vantage points across the city. The cathedral's Baroque architectural style represents a triumph of engineering and artistry, with the dome itself comprising three distinct structures: an inner cone of brick bearing the weight of the lantern, a middle cone providing structural support, and the outer dome visible from outside that visitors can climb.Architectural Splendour and Interior Treasures
Upon entering St. Paul's, visitors are immediately struck by the breathtaking scale and elegance of the central aisle, which stretches beneath the soaring dome. The cathedral's interior is adorned with monuments and memorials to significant figures in British history, including Wellington's Monument honouring the Duke of Wellington, tributes to explorer Robert Scott and painter JMW Turner, and a marble effigy of John Donne, the poet and former Dean. Scorch marks visible on the base of some monuments serve as poignant reminders of the Great Fire's destructive power. The cathedral can comfortably accommodate up to 3,500 visitors at one time, and its spacious interior offers something for everyone—from art enthusiasts appreciating the decorative elements to those fascinated by the engineering feat of its construction.Ascending to the Galleries and Dome Views
One of St. Paul's most distinctive features is the opportunity to climb to its various galleries. The Whispering Gallery, situated 30 metres above the cathedral floor, runs around the inside of the dome and possesses a remarkable acoustic peculiarity: a whisper against the wall on one side can be heard on the opposite side. The Stone Gallery offers intermediate views, while the Golden Gallery at 85 metres provides the highest vantage point accessible to visitors. Reaching the Golden Gallery requires climbing 528 steps, a challenge not recommended for those with claustrophobia but rewarding with marvellous panoramic views of the City of London and beyond. These galleries remain open daily during school holidays and on Mondays, Fridays, and Saturdays during term time.The Crypt and Sacred Spaces
Beneath the soaring heights of the cathedral lies the crypt, a significant space housing numerous burials and memorials. The crypt also features a popular café where visitors can rest and refresh themselves. St. Paul's remains a living, working cathedral and the seat of the Bishop of London, with daily services including morning prayer, holy communion, eucharist, and evensong. All are welcome to attend these services free of charge, experiencing the cathedral in its primary role as a place of worship and spiritual significance.Visitor Experience and Multimedia Interpretation
The cathedral offers multiple ways to enhance your visit. Four types of multimedia guides are included with admission, providing context and stories about the building's history and significance. In-person guided tours are available, including introductory talks lasting 15–20 minutes and general guided tours of approximately one hour, all included in the ticket price and accessible Monday to Saturday without advance booking. Private guide tours, Triforium Tours offering specialised access, and Touch Tours for visually impaired visitors can be arranged in advance. The cathedral attracts approximately 1.7 million visitors annually, testament to its enduring appeal as both a religious institution and architectural marvel.Planning Your Visit
A typical visit requires approximately two hours to explore the main cathedral, crypt, and galleries thoroughly. The cathedral is open for sightseeing Monday to Saturday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, with Wednesday opening at 10:00 am. Last entry is at 4:00 pm. Sunday access is reserved for worship only, though visitors may enter between services to view the main building without accessing the galleries or crypt. Large bags are not permitted, and items may be checked upon entry. The cathedral occasionally closes for special services, so checking the website before visiting is advisable. St. Paul's Cathedral remains an essential London experience, combining architectural magnificence, historical significance, and spiritual resonance in a single iconic structure.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Temple Bar London
0.1 km
Explore Temple Bar, London’s historic ceremonial gateway rebuilt by Christopher Wren, rich with royal heritage and striking 17th-century architecture.
The National Firefighters Memorial
0.1 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who served during the Blitz and beyond.
Queen Anne Statue
0.1 km
Historic statue commemorating Queen Anne’s reign and the completion of St. Paul’s Cathedral, symbolizing Britain’s royal heritage and resilience.
Ludgate Circus
0.4 km
Historic Victorian junction where London's ancient Ludgate once stood, blending rich legend, architecture, and urban vitality.
London City Wall - Bastion 14
0.5 km
Explore Bastion 14, a medieval bastion built on Roman foundations, revealing centuries of London’s ancient city defenses in the Barbican.
Sir William Wallace Memorial
0.5 km
A solemn 1956 memorial to Scotland's greatest patriot, executed here in 1305 for resisting English rule.
St Michael's Church : Paternoster Royal
0.5 km
Historic Anglican church on College Hill, rebuilt by Wren and linked to Dick Whittington, featuring stunning stained glass and a Hawksmoor spire.
Victoria Embankment
0.5 km
A historic riverside promenade in London blending Victorian engineering, scenic gardens, iconic monuments, and stunning Thames views.
London City wall
0.5 km
Explore the ancient Roman and medieval London City Wall, a monumental symbol of the city’s enduring history and resilience.
Holborn Viaduct
0.6 km
A grand Victorian bridge spanning London's hidden Fleet valley, blending engineering innovation with ornate artistry and rich history.
Cloth Fair
0.6 km
Explore the historic Cloth Fair in London, a charming street where medieval architecture meets modern-day London, offering a unique glimpse into the city's past.
Historic England
0.6 km
Discover the rich tapestry of England's history at Historic England, a key organization dedicated to preserving the nation’s architectural treasures.
St Giles Cripplegate
0.6 km
Medieval sanctuary where Milton rests and Cromwell wed, surviving 1,000 years of London's turbulent history.
Southwark Bridge
0.6 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.
Blackfriars Bridge
0.6 km
Historic and widest Thames crossing in London, blending Victorian engineering with medieval heritage and stunning river views.
Unmissable attractions to see
College of Arms
0.2 km
Explore centuries of heraldic tradition at the historic College of Arms, London's official authority on coats of arms and genealogy.
St Vedast alias Foster
0.2 km
A historic City of London church blending medieval roots, Wren’s baroque spire, and wartime resilience in a tranquil urban sanctuary.
One New Change
0.2 km
Discover premier shopping, dining, and stunning rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral in the heart of London's financial district.
Stationers' Hall
0.2 km
Historic Grade I listed venue near St Paul’s Cathedral offering elegant event spaces and a secluded garden for weddings and corporate events.
Queen Victoria St
0.2 km
A historic and vital City of London street linking iconic landmarks with Victorian-era urban vision and modern financial life.
St Martin Ludgate
0.3 km
Discover St Martin Ludgate, a serene Wren church blending Roman history and 17th-century elegance in the heart of London’s ancient city.
Church Entry
0.3 km
Discover Church Entry, a narrow medieval alley in Blackfriars tracing the ancient Blackfriars Priory’s sacred church line beneath modern London.
Watling St
0.3 km
Follow the ancient Roman road that shaped London’s history, once a frontier, battlefield approach, and boundary between kingdoms and boroughs.
St Mary-le-Bow Church
0.3 km
Discover St Mary-le-Bow, the iconic Wren church on Cheapside, home to the legendary Bow Bells and centuries of London history.
St Anne & St Agnes Church
0.3 km
Discover St Anne & St Agnes Church, a historic City sanctuary blending Dutch-inspired architecture with a vibrant musical legacy.
Postman's Park
0.3 km
A serene London park honoring everyday heroes through a unique memorial of selfless sacrifice, nestled near St Paul’s Cathedral.
Apothecaries' Hall
0.4 km
Historic 17th-century livery hall near St Paul’s, blending rich heritage with elegant event spaces and timeless charm.
The Viaduct Tavern, EC1
0.4 km
Step into a lavish Victorian gin palace where London’s legal history and ghostly tales converge beneath ornate ceilings and historic cellars.
St Botolph’s-without-Aldersgate
0.4 km
Historic Georgian church at London’s eastern City gate, blending medieval roots with Victorian artistry and community resilience.
St Mary Aldermary
0.4 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.
Essential places to dine
Madison
0.2 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
St. John
0.8 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
0.9 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
0.9 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.0 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Ikoyi Restaurant
1.2 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
George
1.2 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
14 Hills
1.2 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Wahaca Southbank
1.4 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
1.5 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
1.5 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.
La Dame de Pic London
1.5 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Sarastro
1.5 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Southbank Centre Food Market
1.5 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
1.5 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Smithfield Market
0.7 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.7 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
The Royal Exchange
0.8 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Barbican Shop
0.8 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
0.9 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.9 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.
j-me original design ltd
1.0 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Borough Yards
1.0 km
Discover Borough Yards, a lively London district blending historic railway arches with cutting-edge shopping, dining, and culture near Borough Market.
Twinings - The Strand
1.0 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
London Silver Vaults
1.1 km
The world's largest underground marketplace for fine antique and contemporary silver, hidden beneath historic Chancery Lane.
Sugar And Style
1.1 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
The Store X
1.2 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
The Old Curiosity Shop
1.3 km
Step into a Tudor-era timbered cottage steeped in Dickensian lore, nestled amidst the vibrant heart of modern London.
not just a shop
1.3 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Hay's Galleria
1.4 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
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.
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.
Ye Olde Mitre, Holborn
0.8 km
Discover Ye Olde Mitre, a hidden Tudor-era pub in Holborn where history, legend, and cozy charm converge in a secret London alley.
Lyaness
0.8 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Demon, Wise & Partners
0.9 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
The Chocolate Cocktail Club
0.9 km
London’s intimate chocolate cocktail bar blending rich flavors, stylish ambiance, and over 20 unique chocolate-infused drinks.
The Old Bank of England
0.9 km
Historic Victorian pub on Fleet Street housed in a former Bank of England branch with grand interiors and legendary London tales.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.9 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
The Bootlegger
1.0 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.
Flight Club Shoreditch
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant social darts scene with great food, cocktails, and fun at Flight Club Shoreditch in East London.
Aviary
1.3 km
Elegant rooftop dining with botanical cocktails and panoramic London skyline views in the heart of Finsbury Square.
The Understudy
1.3 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.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
1.3 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
1.3 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Old Street
1.3 km
A vibrant and stylish cocktail bar in London’s Old Street area, known for creative drinks and a lively urban atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
0.7 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
London Best Night Clubs
1.1 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Proud Late
1.4 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
1.5 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
XOYO LONDON
1.6 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
1.7 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Cirque Du Soul
1.8 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.8 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.8 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
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.
The Hoxton Pony
1.8 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.9 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Heaven
1.9 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.
The Roxy
1.9 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.
Trafik
1.9 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Romantic
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Baroque Designs
- Historic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Iconic Views
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Physically Demanding
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Business Friendly
