Chelsea Old Church: A Timeless Sanctuary on the Thames
Historic Tudor church on the Thames with rich royal connections, stunning monuments, and a remarkable post-war restoration.
Chelsea Old Church, located at 64 Cheyne Walk in London, is a historic Anglican church with origins dating back to at least the 8th century. Renowned for its Tudor connections, including Sir Thomas More’s private chapel and monuments to notable figures, it was heavily damaged during WWII and meticulously restored. Today, it stands as a testament to centuries of English history, art, and architecture, offering visitors a rich cultural and spiritual experience.
A brief summary to Chelsea Old Church
- 64 Cheyne Walk, London, SW3 5LT, GB
- +442077951019
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 2 pm-4 pm
- Wednesday 2 pm-4 pm
- Thursday 8 am-8:30 am
- Sunday 8 am-8:30 am
Local tips
- Visit the More Chapel to see the only part of the church that survived the WWII bombing.
- Look for the Hans Holbein-designed capitals flanking the chancel entrance.
- Explore the monuments inside, including the memorial to Sir Hans Sloane.
- Cross the street to Roper’s Garden, once part of Sir Thomas More’s estate.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Sloane Square station, approximately 1.5 km from Chelsea Old Church. From there, a 20-25 minute walk along the scenic Chelsea Embankment leads you to the church. Bus routes 11 and 19 also serve stops near Cheyne Walk with frequent service. No direct parking is available at the church.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London to Chelsea Old Church typically takes 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Drop-off is available on Cheyne Walk. Note that parking nearby is limited and often restricted to residents.
-
Walking
If staying nearby in Chelsea, walking to the church is a pleasant option, with routes along the Thames Embankment offering scenic views. The terrain is flat and accessible, suitable for most visitors.
Chelsea Old Church location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Chelsea Old Church
Ancient Foundations and Medieval Origins
Chelsea Old Church sits on a site with a sacred history stretching back to the fourth millennium BC, once a place of pilgrimage and ritual by the River Thames. The earliest Christian church here likely dates from the 8th century, serving as the parish church of the then village of Chelsea before London’s expansion. By the 13th century, a stone chancel was erected, with north and south chapels added around 1325. The nave and tower followed in the 17th century, completing a structure deeply rooted in medieval ecclesiastical architecture. The church was originally dedicated to All Saints, later to St Luke, reflecting its evolving role in the community over centuries.Tudor Heritage and Sir Thomas More’s Legacy
Chelsea Old Church is famed for its Tudor-era connections, especially through Sir Thomas More, who settled in Chelsea circa 1520. More rebuilt the south chapel as his private worship space in 1528, a rare surviving element after WWII bombings. The More Chapel houses the tomb More designed for himself and his wives, Jane Colt and Alice Harpur, and bears an inscription reflecting his life and faith. The church also hosted worshippers such as Henry VIII, Lady Jane Grey, Elizabeth I, and James I, linking it intimately to the royal and political history of Tudor England. The north chapel, built by the Lawrence family, lords of the manor, adds to the church’s rich tapestry of private patronage.Destruction and Resurrection: The Impact of World War II
In April 1941, a parachute mine detonated near Chelsea Old Church during the Blitz, devastating the majority of the building except for the More Chapel. The destruction threatened to erase centuries of history, but a determined post-war campaign led to the church’s careful reconstruction on its original foundations. By 1950, the More Chapel reopened, and the full church was reconsecrated in 1958. The restoration painstakingly preserved and restored many monuments and architectural details, making Chelsea Old Church a remarkable example of heritage conservation and resilience.Artistic Treasures and Historic Monuments
Chelsea Old Church is renowned for housing one of the finest collections of church monuments outside Westminster Abbey. Highlights include the ornate 1753 memorial to Sir Hans Sloane, whose collections formed the basis of the British Museum, and tombs of notable figures such as Lord Dacre and Lady Jane Guildford. The pillars flanking the chancel entrance feature capitals designed by Hans Holbein, Henry VIII’s court painter. The church’s interior blends medieval elements visible through three arches with classical 17th-century nave architecture, creating a unique visual dialogue between eras.Continuing Spiritual and Cultural Significance
Beyond its historical and architectural importance, Chelsea Old Church remains an active place of worship and community gathering. It has welcomed influential figures such as John Wesley, who preached here when other Anglican churches were closed to him, and literary icons like T.S. Eliot. The church’s enduring presence on the Chelsea Embankment connects modern visitors with centuries of spiritual life, artistic heritage, and local history. Nearby, Roper’s Garden and the statue of Sir Thomas More offer further links to the church’s rich past.Architectural Character and Surrounding Context
The church’s red brick exterior, largely a result of post-war restoration, harmonizes with the classical square nave and medieval chancel glimpsed through its arches. The preserved King Post in the More Chapel offers a rare example of pre-Tudor timber framing. Situated on the scenic Thames Embankment, Chelsea Old Church is surrounded by historic Chelsea streets and gardens, providing a tranquil yet vibrant setting that reflects the area’s artistic and cultural legacy.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cheyne Walk
0.0 km
A historic Chelsea riverside street lined with grand Georgian houses and the former homes of artists, writers, musicians, and political figures.
Albert Bridge
0.3 km
A delicate Victorian marvel spanning the Thames, Albert Bridge enchants with its pastel hues and shimmering lights, linking Chelsea and Battersea in timeless elegance.
Chelsea Old Town Hall
0.5 km
A stunning late Victorian neoclassical landmark on King's Road, blending rich history with vibrant cultural and civic life in Chelsea.
Béla Bartók Memorial
1.2 km
Celebrate the legacy of Béla Bartók, the Hungarian composer and ethnomusicologist, through this evocative bronze memorial in London’s South Kensington.
37 Thurloe St
1.3 km
Historic Victorian townhouse in South Kensington's cultural heart, steps from world-class museums and the Underground.
Empire House
1.5 km
Historic Edwardian landmark in South Kensington offering luxurious apartments near London’s premier cultural and shopping districts.
142 Cromwell Rd
1.7 km
Historic Victorian office building in prestigious South Kensington, steps from world-class museums and transport hubs.
Little Ben Clock
2.5 km
Discover Little Ben, London’s charming miniature clock tower echoing Big Ben’s grandeur and symbolizing enduring Franco-British friendship.
Royal Artillery Memorial
2.5 km
A powerful and realistic tribute to the Royal Artillery’s sacrifice, featuring a monumental stone howitzer and evocative bronze figures at Hyde Park Corner.
Kensington War Memorial
2.5 km
A solemn gothic cross memorial honoring Kensington’s fallen soldiers, set beside the historic St Mary Abbots Church.
Historic Houses
2.6 km
Explore the heart of Britain's heritage through Historic Houses, a gateway to centuries-old castles, gardens, and stately homes across the UK.
Wellington Arch
2.6 km
Discover Wellington Arch, London's majestic neoclassical triumphal arch with rich history, stunning views, and iconic Quadriga sculpture.
Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington
2.6 km
Historic bronze statue honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military triumphs and contributions to London’s cityscape, unveiled in 1844.
St Saviours Church
2.6 km
Discover the architectural beauty and tranquil atmosphere of St. Saviour's Church in Pimlico, a peaceful retreat in the heart of London.
Norwegian War Memorial
2.6 km
A solemn granite tribute in Hyde Park honoring British-Norwegian friendship and support during World War II.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Trust - Carlyle's House
0.1 km
Step into the preserved Victorian home of Thomas and Jane Carlyle, a literary hub in Chelsea where history and culture come alive.
Rococo Chocolates King's Road
0.4 km
Experience handcrafted British chocolates and immersive workshops in a charming King's Road boutique with a hidden secret garden.
Chelsea Physic Garden
0.6 km
Explore London’s oldest botanic garden, a historic sanctuary of medicinal plants and botanical heritage since 1673.
Cremorne Gardens
0.6 km
A tranquil riverside park in Chelsea preserving the legacy of London’s vibrant Victorian pleasure gardens with stunning Thames views and wildlife art.
St Luke’s Gardens
0.7 km
A historic and tranquil Chelsea garden blending Neo-Gothic heritage with vibrant green spaces and family-friendly recreation.
St Luke's & Christ Church
0.7 km
Discover St Luke's & Christ Church, Chelsea — a historic Gothic Revival Anglican parish blending architectural grandeur with vibrant community spirit.
National Army Museum
0.8 km
Explore the rich history and personal stories of the British Army through interactive galleries and engaging exhibits in Chelsea’s premier military museum.
The London Peace Pagoda
0.8 km
A serene Buddhist stupa in Battersea Park symbolizing peace, spirituality, and cultural harmony beside the River Thames in London.
HTB Onslow Square
1.0 km
A vibrant Anglican church blending tradition with contemporary worship in the heart of South Kensington.
Battersea Park
1.0 km
Explore Battersea Park, a 200-acre Victorian riverside oasis blending history, nature, and vibrant leisure on the Thames in London.
Go Ape Battersea
1.0 km
Experience London's ultimate treetop adventure with thrilling ziplines and high ropes courses set in scenic Battersea Park.
Royal Hospital Chelsea
1.1 km
Historic home and sanctuary for British Army veterans, blending stunning 17th-century architecture with a living military heritage in London.
Barts
1.1 km
Discover Barts, Chelsea's chic cocktail bar where vintage charm meets innovative mixology for an unforgettable night out in London.
Sussex Mansions
1.2 km
Historic mansion block apartments in vibrant South Kensington, blending classic London charm with cultural richness and urban convenience.
Duke of York Square
1.2 km
Chelsea's elegant fusion of heritage and contemporary culture, where shopping, dining, and art converge in a traffic-free piazza.
Essential places to dine
The Jam
0.3 km
Discover Chelsea’s iconic Italian eatery with quirky treehouse seating and authentic cuisine on King’s Road.
Rabbit
0.7 km
A rustic yet refined modern British bistro on King's Road, celebrating sustainable farm-to-fork dining in the heart of Chelsea.
Ollie's House Restaurant (Chelsea)
0.8 km
A vibrant Pan-Asian fusion restaurant in Chelsea serving fresh, bold flavours in a bright, tropical-inspired setting with creative cocktails.
Town House Kensington
1.2 km
Elegant modern British dining with global influences in the heart of South Kensington, offering all-day meals and refined ambiance.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
2.3 km
Experience two Michelin-starred historic British cuisine reimagined with modern artistry at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in the heart of Knightsbridge.
The Grenadier
2.3 km
Discover The Grenadier, a historic and haunted London pub steeped in military legacy and timeless charm in the heart of Belgravia.
Grato
2.3 km
Cozy Italian dining with handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the tranquil heart of Kensington Square, London.
Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street
2.4 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm await at Spaghetti House on Kensington High Street, perfect for casual dining in central London.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington
2.5 km
Cozy Italian dining in the heart of Kensington with classic pasta, pizza, and family-friendly options in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Zuaya London
2.5 km
Discover modern Latin American cuisine with vibrant flavors, stylish ambiance, and exceptional cocktails in the heart of Kensington.
Dishoom Kensington
2.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavours and Art Deco charm of Bombay’s iconic Irani cafés at Dishoom Kensington, London’s stylish Indian dining destination.
Akira Restaurant at Japan House London
2.5 km
Experience authentic Japanese elegance and exquisite omakase dining in the heart of Kensington at Akira Restaurant, Japan House London.
The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
2.5 km
Classic British brasserie charm meets lively Kensington atmosphere in this elegant all-day dining hotspot on High Street.
The English Grill
2.5 km
Classic British dining perfected with expertly grilled steaks and seasonal delights in a refined, elegant setting near London’s iconic theatres.
Bill's Victoria Restaurant
2.6 km
A vibrant British eatery near Victoria Station offering hearty classics, sharing plates, and plant-based dishes in a cozy, casual setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
V&A Shop
1.5 km
Discover art-inspired gifts and unique keepsakes at the V&A Shop, nestled within London’s renowned Victoria and Albert Museum.
The Natural History Museum Shop
1.5 km
Discover nature’s wonders through unique gifts and souvenirs at the Natural History Museum Shop in London’s iconic museum.
Pop London - Sustainable Fashion Boutique
1.6 km
Discover stylish, affordable sustainable fashion at Pop London, a boutique blending ethical design with community spirit in the heart of London.
Science Museum Shop
1.6 km
Ignite curiosity with science-inspired gifts, gadgets, and toys at this inventive shop inside London's Science Museum – perfect for all ages.
Jigsaw
2.5 km
Refined British womenswear on Kensington High Street, where timeless tailoring meets contemporary elegance in a stylish boutique haven.
Urban Outfitters
2.5 km
Trendy threads and eclectic home vibes on London's iconic Kensington High Street – Urban Outfitters delivers boho-chic shopping with a creative edge.
Kensington High St
2.5 km
Discover London’s vibrant shopping heart, where high-end boutiques meet local charm and royal parks.
London Souvenir Kensington
2.5 km
Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.
Cool Britannia
2.6 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and vintage photography moments just steps from Buckingham Palace in a lively and welcoming shop.
Cardinal Place
2.6 km
Experience the ultimate shopping and dining destination at Cardinal Place, London’s vibrant commercial hub near Victoria Station.
Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
2.6 km
Unearth ethical treasures on Kensington High Street at this vibrant Oxfam shop, where second-hand style funds global change amid London's posh shopping scene.
Buckingham Palace Shop
2.6 km
Official royal souvenirs at the palace gates: chinaware, gifts, and memorabilia that bring Buckingham Palace's grandeur home with you. (162 characters)
the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
2.7 km
Curated design haven on Kensington High Street: books, homewares, and innovative gifts celebrating creativity from the Design Museum.
Octavia Foundation - Kensington
2.7 km
Discover designer bargains and vintage treasures at this Kensington High Street charity shop, funding life-changing support for local communities in true Octavia Hill spirit.
The Queen's Shop
2.7 km
Exclusive royal gifts and British heritage souvenirs steps from Buckingham Palace, blending luxury, tradition, and timeless elegance in a charming London boutique.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
K Bar
1.2 km
Sophisticated South Kensington cocktail haven blending innovative mixology, gem-inspired elixirs, and plush club-like elegance for unforgettable evenings.
The Hereford Arms, South Kensington
1.3 km
Victorian South Kensington pub pouring Fuller's ales, serving refined classics like cod and cottage pie amid Hitchcock charm and Ripper lore.
The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
1.4 km
A stylish South Kensington cocktail bar blending tropical design, sustainable mixology, and warm hospitality for memorable nights.
Evans & Peel Detective Agency
1.6 km
Step into a secret 1920s detective office for immersive cocktails, live jazz, and a playful mystery-solving speakeasy experience in London’s Earl’s Court.
The White Ferry, Victoria (PUBLOVE)
1.8 km
Affordable hostel living meets classic British pub culture in the heart of Pimlico, steps from Victoria Station and London’s iconic sights.
Bar 190
2.0 km
Experience London’s legendary rock ’n’ roll cocktail bar with classic Victorian charm and expertly crafted drinks at Bar 190.
Sugar Cane Bar
2.2 km
Escape to a vibrant tropical tiki bar in Clapham with exotic cocktails, lively music, and private huts for unforgettable nights out.
Bar Social
2.2 km
Lively Battersea cocktail bar with award-winning drinks, private event spaces, and late-night dancing on Lavender Hill.
The Builders Arms
2.2 km
A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.
Stables Bar
2.4 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail haven in a former stable, blending equestrian heritage with inventive mixology and cosy conservatory vibes opposite lush gardens.
AMARO BAR - London
2.4 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail bar blending Savoy mastery with inventive twists, vintage rarities, and intimate speakeasy charm on High Street.
Piano Kensington
2.5 km
Live piano requests, cocktails and casual late-night bites in the Royal Garden Hotel — a music-led, relaxed Kensington night out.
High Spirit Cocktail Bar
2.5 km
A friendly, compact cocktail bar on Kensington High Street serving well-made classics and creative seasonal drinks in a warm, music-led setting.
Bbar
2.5 km
Chic Victoria cocktail bar beneath a living wall, blending South African zest with inventive drinks, hearty bites, and unforgettable afternoon teas near Buckingham Palace.
The New York Bar
2.5 km
A polished hotel lounge opposite Buckingham Palace — handcrafted cocktails, tasting events and piano-accompanied afternoons in plush, traditional surroundings.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
B London
1.1 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
Dolce Night Club , London
1.3 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
Metric
2.0 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
Lightbox London
3.3 km
Dive into dazzling LED realms at Vauxhall's electrifying nightclub, where lights, beats, and all-night energy create unforgettable weekend escapes.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
3.3 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Fire Nightclub
3.3 km
Vauxhall's railway arch behemoth: all-night house marathons, go-go dancers, and dawn-defying beats in London's gay club epicenter.
Infernos Nightclub
3.3 km
Clapham’s legendary two-floor nightclub where wild nights, iconic music, and unforgettable parties come alive until dawn.
Notting Hill Arts Club
3.3 km
West London's sweaty basement cradle of music legends since '97—coffee by day, live gigs and club nights till 2am in an intimate den of funk, jazz, and raw talent.
Union
3.4 km
Vauxhall's relentless nightclub heartbeat: techno-fueled nights stretching to dawn in multi-zone bliss along the Thames.
Bootylicious London last Saturday of the month
3.4 km
Late-night Vauxhall institution for raw techno, queer-focused party nights and after-hours clubbing on Albert Embankment.
Ricco London
3.4 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
3.4 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Tabu London
3.4 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.
The Scotch of St James
3.6 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
The Castle
3.7 km
Classic Notting Hill gastropub where hearty British dishes, crisp ales, and lively vibes create the perfect London local escape.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
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
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
