St Alfege Church: A Millennium of Faith and History in Greenwich
Discover over a millennium of history, architecture, and music at St Alfege Church, the heart of Greenwich’s spiritual heritage.
St Alfege Church in Greenwich, London, is a historic Anglican church with origins dating back over 1,000 years. Rebuilt between 1712 and 1714 by renowned architect Nicholas Hawksmoor after the medieval church collapsed, it stands on the site where Archbishop Alfege was martyred in 1012. The church is notable for its Baroque architecture, rich musical heritage, and connections to key historical figures, including Henry VIII and Thomas Tallis.
A brief summary to St Alfege Church
- Greenwich Church St, London, SE10 8NA, GB
- +442088530687
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
- Thursday 11 am-4 pm
- Friday 11 am-4 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit the crypt during special open days to explore the burial vaults of historic figures like General Wolfe.
- Attend a Thomas Tallis Society concert to experience the church’s rich musical tradition.
- Take time to admire the Baroque façade and Hawksmoor’s distinctive architectural details.
- Explore the stained glass windows depicting key historical events connected to the church.
- Check the church’s opening hours as it is typically open from 11:00 to 16:00 on most weekdays and weekends.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to Cutty Sark station, approximately 10-15 minutes from central London. From there, it is a 5-minute walk to St Alfege Church. Tickets cost around £2.40–£4.90 depending on zones.
-
Train
Use Southeastern trains to Greenwich station from London Cannon Street or London Bridge, with a journey time of about 15-20 minutes. The church is a 10-minute walk from the station. Train fares range from £4 to £7.
-
Bus
Several London bus routes serve Greenwich Church Street, including routes 188, 129, and 386. Bus travel times vary from 20 to 40 minutes depending on your starting point. Standard Oyster/contactless fares apply, usually under £2.50.
-
Walking
If staying nearby in Greenwich, the church is accessible on foot via paved streets through the historic town center. Walking times range from 10 to 25 minutes depending on your location, with mostly flat terrain suitable for most visitors.
St Alfege Church location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St Alfege Church
Ancient Origins and Martyrdom of St Alfege
St Alfege Church is built on a site steeped in history, marking the place where Alfege, Archbishop of Canterbury, was martyred by Danish raiders in 1012. Taken hostage during the sack of Canterbury, Alfege refused to allow his people to pay a ransom for his release, famously stating he would not "burden the poor with his freedom." He was killed at Greenwich, then a small riverside settlement, making this site sacred ground for over a millennium. The earliest church dedicated to him was likely constructed soon after his death, establishing Greenwich as a place of religious pilgrimage and reverence.Medieval and Tudor Legacy
The original Saxon chapel was rebuilt in stone by the Normans around the late 13th century, reflecting the enduring faith of its parishioners. The church witnessed significant historical events, including the baptism of Henry VIII in 1491 and the marriage of his sister Mary Tudor. It also served as the final resting place of Thomas Tallis, the father of English church music, who was organist here during the 16th century. Over the centuries, the church’s medieval structure endured but became unstable due to burials inside and outside, leading to its collapse during a storm in 1710.Baroque Masterpiece by Nicholas Hawksmoor
Following the collapse, the present church was commissioned under the Fifty New Churches Act and designed by Nicholas Hawksmoor, a leading figure in English Baroque architecture and a pupil of Sir Christopher Wren. Built between 1712 and 1714, it was Hawksmoor’s first complete church project. The design features a commanding Baroque façade with towering Corinthian columns, a sculpted pediment, and a distinctive square tower. The interior boasts original elements such as Corinthian capitals and elaborate wood carvings attributed to Grinling Gibbons, as well as wrought ironwork by Jean Tijou. The church was consecrated in 1718 and remains a striking example of early 18th-century ecclesiastical architecture.Resilience Through War and Restoration
During World War II, the crypt served as an air-raid shelter, housing families during the Blitz. On 19 March 1941, incendiary bombs struck the church, causing the roof to collapse and gutting much of the nave’s interior. Despite severe damage, the walls and tower survived. Post-war restoration led by Sir Albert Richardson faithfully rebuilt the church, including new stained glass windows commemorating historic figures connected to the church such as General Wolfe and Thomas Tallis. The church was rededicated in 1953, preserving its heritage and continuing its role as a place of worship and community.Musical and Cultural Heritage
St Alfege Church has a rich musical tradition, highlighted by its association with Thomas Tallis, regarded as the father of English choral music. The church hosts concerts by the Thomas Tallis Society, celebrating his legacy. The interior’s stained glass windows depict key historical moments, including the martyrdom of St Alfege, the baptism of Henry VIII, and the marriage of Mary Tudor. The crypt contains over 1,000 burials, including notable figures such as General James Wolfe, emphasizing the church’s long-standing connection to Greenwich’s royal, maritime, and scientific history.Living Heritage and Community Significance
Today, St Alfege Church remains an active Anglican parish and a vital part of the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site. It celebrates local traditions such as the Founder's Day of nearby schools and serves as a spiritual and cultural landmark. The church’s blend of medieval origins, Baroque architecture, wartime resilience, and musical heritage offers visitors a profound connection to over a thousand years of English history and faith.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site
0.1 km
Explore Maritime Greenwich, where royal heritage, maritime history, and the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time converge in a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bellot Memorial Greenwich
0.4 km
A solemn obelisk in Greenwich honoring Lieutenant Joseph René Bellot’s Arctic bravery and sacrifice during the Franklin rescue expeditions.
Trafalgar Tavern
0.6 km
Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel North
0.7 km
Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
Anchor Iron Wharf
0.9 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
City Hall
3.5 km
Discover London’s eco-friendly City Hall, a striking architectural landmark and vibrant hub of governance and public engagement on the Royal Docks waterfront.
St Anne's Church, Limehouse
3.7 km
Discover St Anne's Church, Limehouse—an 18th-century Baroque maritime landmark with rich naval heritage and mysterious architectural features.
Execution Dock
4.1 km
A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
Shadwell Basin
4.2 km
Experience the peaceful beauty of Shadwell Basin, a serene spot in London perfect for relaxation and scenic walks amidst nature's charm.
King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)
4.2 km
Historic Thames foreshore site where pirates and maritime criminals faced grim justice under Admiralty law for over 400 years.
The Captain Kidd
4.2 km
Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.
Execution Dock House
4.3 km
Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.
Ornamental Canal
4.7 km
Explore the serene Ornamental Canal in London, a picturesque waterway perfect for relaxation, scenic views, and rich history.
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
4.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, a unique blend of nature, history, and community nestled in the heart of London.
International House
5.2 km
Discover the International House in London, a symbol of global unity and vibrant cultural exchange at the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
1 Greenwich Church St
0.0 km
Historic Greenwich Church Street blends centuries of heritage with vibrant shops, eateries, and iconic landmarks by the Thames.
The Greenwich Vintage Market
0.0 km
Discover rare antiques, vintage treasures, and eclectic crafts in the heart of historic Greenwich’s vibrant market scene.
5b Greenwich Market
0.1 km
A historic covered market in Greenwich, London, brimming with artisan crafts, antiques, vintage finds, and global street food in a lively, community-focused setting.
Greenwich Market
0.1 km
Historic Greenwich Market blends antiques, artisan crafts, and global street food in a vibrant, covered London landmark open daily.
Oliver's Jazz Bar
0.2 km
An intimate, candlelit basement jazz club in Greenwich where close-up live music and community atmosphere meet a well-stocked bar.
The Fan Museum
0.2 km
Discover the UK’s only museum dedicated to the history and craft of fans, set in elegant Georgian townhouses in historic Greenwich.
Greenwich Tourist Information Desk
0.3 km
Explore London's maritime heritage at the Greenwich Tourist Information Desk, your gateway to local attractions and experiences.
Cutty Sark
0.3 km
Explore the world’s fastest surviving tea clipper, Cutty Sark, a historic maritime treasure in the heart of Greenwich with immersive exhibits and stunning river views.
National Maritime Museum Gardens
0.3 km
A tranquil garden oasis within London’s premier maritime museum complex, blending history, nature, and family-friendly charm.
Naval College Gardens
0.3 km
A tranquil riverside garden in Greenwich, framed by the Old Royal Naval College and offering views of the Cutty Sark and Canary Wharf across the Thames.
National Maritime Museum
0.3 km
Explore Britain’s rich naval history at the world’s largest maritime museum, set in scenic Greenwich with free entry and engaging galleries for all ages.
Cutty Sark Gardens
0.3 km
A serene riverside park in Greenwich showcasing the historic Cutty Sark tea clipper and offering scenic Thames views and vibrant cultural connections.
Painted Hall
0.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Painted Hall, a Baroque masterpiece with vivid ceilings and walls celebrating Britain’s naval and royal heritage.
Trinity Laban
0.4 km
The UK's premier conservatoire for music and contemporary dance, set within the historic Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich.
Greenwich Pier
0.4 km
Historic Greenwich Pier offers scenic river cruises and easy access to London's maritime landmarks and vibrant cultural heritage along the Thames.
Essential places to dine
Bill's Greenwich Restaurant
0.0 km
A cozy British restaurant in Greenwich offering hearty dishes, friendly service, and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere from breakfast to late dinner.
Sticks'n'Sushi Greenwich
0.1 km
Experience fresh sushi and Nordic-inspired grilled sticks in stylish Greenwich, where maritime history meets modern Japanese cuisine.
Pho Street
0.1 km
Authentic Vietnamese pho, banh mi, and bubble tea served in a lively Greenwich setting with fresh flavors and warm hospitality.
Goddards at Greenwich
0.1 km
Experience authentic British pie and mash at Goddards at Greenwich, a historic eatery serving traditional comfort food in a welcoming setting.
The Sail Loft, Greenwich
0.4 km
Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.
The Prince of Greenwich Pub
0.5 km
A vibrant gastropub in Greenwich blending quirky museum charm, authentic Italian cuisine, and lively jazz in a historic London setting.
The Hill
0.6 km
A vibrant Mediterranean and Latin American fusion restaurant with a cozy garden setting in the heart of Greenwich.
Midpoint Restaurant
0.9 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
Sefa Restaurant
0.9 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
Restaurant Story
5.3 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
La Dame de Pic London
5.8 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
6.0 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
6.0 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
14 Hills
6.1 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
George
6.2 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Cutty Sark Gift Shop
0.1 km
Discover maritime magic and London keepsakes at this Greenwich gem, brimming with Cutty Sark-inspired treasures and souvenirs just steps from the historic clipper ship.
Joli Vintage Living
0.1 km
Discover timeless threads and retro treasures at Joli Vintage Living, Greenwich's gem for sustainable, era-spanning style on charming Nelson Road.
Dragonfly Lifestyle
0.1 km
A small Greenwich boutique blending mindful womenswear, handcrafted jewellery and wellbeing finds in a calm, curated shop environment.
Arc Angel Boutique London
0.1 km
Elegant womenswear samples, striking accessories, and quirky gifts await in Greenwich Market's stylish haven, where fashion meets historic charm.
Made in Greenwich
0.1 km
Discover Greenwich's handmade heart: a not-for-profit haven where local makers' treasures shine, fueling community creativity one unique gift at a time.
Rare Books & Curios
0.1 km
A compact Greenwich Market stall overflowing with rare and vintage books, maps and printed curios that reward slow, tactile browsing.
Greenwich Gifts Candy Land
0.1 km
Dive into a candy wonderland on Greenwich Church Street, where British classics and global sweets make perfect edible souvenirs in London's historic heart.
The Junk Shop
0.4 km
Lose yourself in Greenwich's maze-like antique wonderland, where eclectic treasures, a cozy tearoom, and quirky finds await around every cluttered corner.
Painted hall gift shop
0.4 km
Souvenirs and stories from Greenwich's naval heart—tote bags, books, and treasures evoking the Painted Hall's timeless splendor.
La Boutique Vintage
0.9 km
Unearth retro home treasures in Greenwich's cozy furniture nook—sustainable style with vintage soul.
Bermondsey Antique Market
5.3 km
Uncover vintage treasures at London’s oldest antiques market, where history meets haggling every Friday morning in Bermondsey Square.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
5.3 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
Tower of London Shop
5.7 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Traders Gate
5.7 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Hay's Galleria
5.8 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kings Arms
0.1 km
Classic Greenwich pub with hearty grub, real ales, dog-friendly beer garden, and riverside vibes—perfect for post-sightseeing pints.
Ye Olde Rose & Crown Greenwich
0.2 km
Traditional Greenwich pub pouring real ales and pub classics next to the theatre—perfect for families, dogs, and post-show pints in historic surrounds.
The Gipsy Moth
0.2 km
Historic Greenwich pub with Cutty Sark views, hearty grub, beer garden bliss, and live music vibes—perfect for nautical nostalgia and relaxed revelry.
The Lost Hour
0.3 km
Greenwich's craft beer epicenter where sports, pub grub, and late-night vibes collide—lose yourself in the fun on High Road.
Mindful Mixology
0.4 km
A compact Greenwich cocktail bar focused on lower-sugar craft drinks, hands-on masterclasses and a calm riverside atmosphere.
Greenwich Town Social Club
1.4 km
Cozy Greenwich social hub for cheap drinks, karaoke nights, and neighborhood camaraderie on Blackwall Lane.
Td 338 Bar
1.9 km
Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.
All Bar One Greenwich
2.6 km
Elevate your O2 experience at this multi-floor haven of wines, cocktails, and event-night energy—perfect for pre-show feasts and lively toasts amid London's entertainment epicenter.
Eighteen Sky Bar
2.6 km
Elevate your evening with crafted cocktails and 360-degree skyline views from the 18th floor over Thames, Canary Wharf, and The O2.
Drink At Bob's
3.3 km
Lively cocktail bar in Hither Green blending expertly crafted drinks, live music, and a welcoming vibe with vegan-friendly options.
The Midnight Apothecary
3.8 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
Nine Lives
5.6 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
5.8 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
The Old School Yard
5.9 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
5.9 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Bunker
1.3 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
The Hatch Club
1.9 km
A late-night New Cross club with a roomy dancefloor, VIP sections and bass-forward DJ nights—built for parties and private events.
The Venue
1.9 km
A vibrant multi-room nightclub in New Cross, London, blending diverse music, cutting-edge sound, and a welcoming atmosphere since 1989.
American Express Invites Lounge
2.6 km
A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.
(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
2.7 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
LA Lounge
3.3 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
CQ LOUNGE
4.1 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
Club 701
4.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
E1
4.8 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Corsica Studios
6.3 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
The Steel Yard
6.5 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Ministry of Sound
6.5 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
7.0 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Trafik
7.1 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
Basing House - Shoreditch
7.2 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Baroque
- Historic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
